By Festus Fifen

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday said his administration recognizes the vital role of the youths in shaping the nation’s future and also reaffirming his commitment to engaging young minds and empowering them to reach their full potential.

President Tinubu stated this in Abuja during the Nigeria Police Youth Summit in commemoration of the United Nations’ International Youth Day observed on the 12th of August Every Year.

The President who was represented at the event by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim called on key stakeholders to include the Youths in Nation Building while promising to build a generation of leaders, thinkers and change-makers who will shape the future of the nation and the world.

In his address , the Nigeria Inspector General of Police IGP Kayode Egbetokun described the event as a vital turning point while emphasising that the Police Youth Summit signifies the commitment of the Nigeria Police to the enhancement of national security through youth inclusivity and engagement. He also reinstated his belief in the Nigerian Youths and their vital role in achieving national security and sustainable development.

In his words ” The insights and ideas generated in this summit will contribute to enhancing national security intelligence and promoting youth development. The Federal Government and the Nigeria Police Force remain committed to supporting and empowering the youth to reach their full potential.”

The event themed “Enhancing The Nigerian Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence”, aimed to engage youth in national security efforts, promote their contributions, and address challenges facing the nation.

The Keynote Speaker of the summit Prof. Lanre Fagbohun focused on the importance of youth inclusivity in key areas of national security, reward systems for youth development and sponsorship programmes to encourage youths and promote national growth.

The event also featured a panel discussion which gave an avenue for several youth leaders and representatives in attendance to seek clarifications and understanding of vital issues and solutions to several challenges facing the country.

In attendance, was the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs Ibrahim Geidam, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Police Affairs, Mr. James Sule, National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Maj. Gen PP Malla, the Director of Defence Affairs,
Chairman Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), and representatives of the various service chiefs and paramilitary organisations.

The Summit also had in attendance, various Presidents and Heads of National Youth Organizations, the National Youth Council of Nigeria, the National Youth Coalition, and several other key Youth Leaders of Organizations.