The National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) has commended Nigerians’ resilience for making great strides for 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.
The National Speaker of the assembly, Amb. Usman Shagari, said this on Wednesday at a news conference in Abuja.
Shagari called on government to ensure.economic stabilisation through industrialisation and agricultural development.
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The theme of the conference titled “Unlocking the Power of Youth: Leveraging Nigeria’s Demographic Dividend for National Progress”
Shagari recalled that over the last 25 years, Nigeria’s democracy had achieved some notable milestones, including consolidation of democratic institutions, expansion of political participation and improvement in human rights and rule of law.
“Significant strides have been made in enhancing national security, although challenges persist.
“Through collaborative efforts between government agencies, security agencies, and communities, tangible progress has been achieved in safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens,” he said.
He said that alongside these achievements, there had been the existing non-achievements of democracy, including persistent challenges such as the issue of minimum wage.
“Addressing such socio-economic disparities remains imperative to fostering inclusive growth and ensuring the well-being of all Nigerians.
“We also acknowledge that our democracy still faces other challenges, including corruption, inequality and ethnic sentiments, unemployment and insecurity, among others,” he said.
The speaker advocated enhanced nationwide security, promoting the spirit of unity, diversity and harmony, and stronger democratic institutions as ways to address these challenges.
He also called for the implementation of the minimum wage to ensure a living wage for all workers, urging members of the National Assembly to uphold the principles of democracy.
He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the youth assembly to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.
He, therefore, called on Nigerian youths, government institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector to unite in their collective pursuit for prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Nigeria. (NAN)
