Prominent political figures have called on Nigerian youths to shift from passive criticism to active civic engagement, stressing the need for constructive interaction with government leaders to drive national development.
Speaking at a public engagement event in Abuja organized to celebrate 2025 workers day MAY DAY MAY DAY 2025 Unleashing The Power Surge Of Nigeria’s Labourers, Senator Ireti Kingibe emphasized that governance is a partnership between the governed and the government, and that young Nigerians must take greater responsibility in shaping the country’s future.
“This is your country—own it,” Kingibe declared. “Governance is a synergy. We cannot move forward if all we do is insult leaders. We must engage them constructively, demand accountability, and be part of the solution.”
She noted that with youth making up over 70 percent of Nigeria’s population, their influence cannot be ignored. However, she expressed concern that many young people have become silent in the face of worsening socio-economic challenges.
Also speaking at the event, Moses Paul, the event organizer, said the purpose of the gathering was to unite Nigerians across political divides and inspire renewed civic participation.
“We are going through incredible times in our history,” Paul said. “With rising economic hardship and persistent insecurity, it is more important than ever for Nigerians to come together and speak with one voice.”
In her contribution, former Minister of Finance, Senator Nenadi Usman, urged the government to design and implement people-oriented policies that directly address the needs of the masses. She stressed that policy must reflect the realities of citizens’ daily lives, especially during times of economic strain.
The event concluded with a unified call for Nigerian youths to rise above apathy, engage leaders responsibly, and leverage their numbers to drive meaningful change in the country.