Nigerian youths and stakeholders have shared their expectations ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s proposed National Youth Conference.

They believe the event should not just be about talks but must lead to real action that improves the lives of young people.

The conference, set to last 30 days, is part of the government’s response to youth-led protests like #EndBadGovernance and #FearlessOctober.

It aims to tackle issues like unemployment, education, political participation, and youth empowerment.

However, many are still wondering why the conference has not taken place, months after the announcement.

Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, Vice Chancellor of the African School of Economics, Abuja, said the event should promote education, leadership skills, social responsibility, and warn youths about the dangers of drug abuse.

“There’s too much obsession with making money quickly. The conference should teach the importance of learning, self-growth, and helping society,” he said.

Adetimirin Yusuf, former student leader at Lagos State University (LASU), called for policies that promote vocational training to reduce youth unemployment.

He believes teaching young people how to create products would help the economy.

A student of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Abdullateef Faruq, added that youths need access to mentorship programs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and inclusion in decision-making.

“Many young people leave the country because there’s no hope here. The conference must bring real solutions like job creation and security,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jimoh Tolani Wahab, a LASU graduate, said policy implementation is key.

“Without action, the conference will just be another talk show. The government must invest in young people and create long-term economic plans,” he stated.

As the nation waits for the conference date, young Nigerians are hoping the event will mark the start of positive change in their lives.