PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu left Abuja today for the United Kingdom, where he will be on a two-week vacation as part of his annual leave.
According to a statement released today by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President will use the time as a working vacation, allowing him to reflect on his administration’s economic reforms.
Tinubu departed the capital at precisely 2:35 p.m., after exchanging pleasantries with senior government officials.
Before his departure, the President delivered a speech in celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.
In his address, he announced plans to organize a 30-day conference aimed at involving youth in his administration.
Tinubu emphasized that the structure and delegate selection for the conference would be determined shortly.
During his second Independence Day broadcast since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Tinubu highlighted the importance of engaging the youth in shaping the nation’s future: “We lead today with a focus on the future we wish to leave for our children. It is crucial that they be active participants in designing it.”
The National Youth Conference, as announced by the President, will address challenges and opportunities in areas such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice.
The conference will provide young Nigerians, who make up over 60 percent of the population, with a platform for meaningful dialogue and engagement in nation-building.
Tinubu assured that the government would carefully review the outcomes of the conference and implement its recommendations in its efforts to build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to reforming the nation’s political economy and defence systems, ensuring Nigeria’s survival in the face of challenges.
While commending the resilience of the Nigerian people, Tinubu expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome crises that have caused the downfall of other nations.
Additionally, he reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to defeat bandits and terrorists, enabling displaced farmers to return to their land and help reduce rising food prices.