Akume hails Tinubu on youth inclusion

…promise to attend CYMS conference in May

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF) Dr. George Akume has stated that the Nigerian government is making deliberate efforts to harness the potentials of the Nigerian youths towards the socio-economic development of the nation.

Akume stated this on Tuesday in Abuja when the Director General, Committee of Youths on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), Chief Obinna Nwaka led his executive on a courtesy visit to the SGF office.

The SGF who fraternised with the commitee briefly reaffirmed Mr President’s commitment to prioritising the needs of the youth, following the recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval of funds and 30% slots for youth in governance, before mandating the Permanent Secretary, Dr Nnamdi Mbaeri to continue the meeting.

While discussing with the group, the Permanent Secretary expressed hope that the present administration’s policies and programmes geared toward youth empowerment in the area of entrepreneurship and others would bring about the desired economic well being for the country.

According to him, “Your organisation is not new to this office, we are partners in progress and you have been officially accredited a partner to this office before now.

“Your activities have always been well portrayed by projecting what the Government is doing. We have transmitted from one administration to another and I am happy you consistently identify with each administration that comes up.

“The primary purpose is to project the image of the country and of course to sensitise the youths and imbibe the culture of tolerance, hard work, and Patriotism. And of course, to give the image of this country anywhere, any day, a positive reflection

“I want to commend you and assure you that the government is desirous of ensuring that the youths at any point in time are well positioned for Leadership position and you can attest to this by the number of youth involved in this administration.

“You will have the support of this office. This administration has the interest of the youths at heart. We will look into all your requests and it will be officially treated, “he said.

The SGF further commended the group for having the unity of the country in mind, saying that the unity of the country could only be guaranteed by the youth.

He said “understanding that there is no need for acrimony, there is no need to be used as an instrument to disorganized a system.

“Rather, there is the need for peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and to build progressive minds at all times, “he said.

Earlier, the Director General, CYMS, Chief Obinna Nwaka passed a vote of confidence on the SGF in recognition of his commitment and exemplary leadership for the growth and development of the youth, while assuring the organization support.

Nwaka highlighted the crucial role that the organisation played in the socio-economic fabric of the country with the support of the office.

He acknowledged the organisation’s significant contributions to national unity and socio-economic development, making it a household name in Nigeria.

He said that some youths in the country had proved to be good citizens of Nigeria by demonstrating patriotism and loyalty to the nation, however more opportunities and activities will be created for them through CYMS.

According to him, as a dynamic organisation, CYMS continues to assert its relevance by being responsive to prevailing national needs since it’s engagement by the office in 2018.

“We are here today to inform you of our forthcoming 2-day National conference which comprises two segments: first day conference itself while second day a Peace & Unity walk and award night including papers to be delivered by prominent people”.

“The essence of the award night is to create a platform where young people or individuals will dine and familiarize with their role models, while observing the evening session.

We will recognise some individuals with Icon of peace award, Those who have demonstrated patriotism and anti corruption characteristics will be encouraged through our organisation in collaboration with the government.

“We solicit your full support for this event and we want to reassure you and the office that whatever opportunity you give to us will not be jeopardized.

“The support, commitment and everything that we have asked for is very concerning to us, we haven’t abused this before and we won’t abuse it now especially since we have our father as the SGF , “he said to the Permanent Secretary.

Nwaka also solicited for more sense of belonging and technical support for the organisation to help in attending to plights and predicament of the youths efficiently and effectively.

Interestingly to note that, the CYMS is set to hold a National conference to enhance peace and national development on May 16 and 17, 2024 which SGF affirmed to be in attendance as the Special Guest of Honor.

The event is a two legged event, the Conference, a unity walk and award night, aimed at sensitising the youths about the importance of unity of the country, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

CAPITAL POST reports that CYMS is a domiciled youth body in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation set up to drive youth inclusion in promotion of the policies, programs and activities of the government while playing active participation in every decision making process that concerns the young people of the country.

The body is a monitoring, mobilisation and sensitisation platform of young people. It is also to assist FG in areas of sensitisation, promotion of its policies and programmes while reporting to the presidency.