In line with the 2020 International Youth Day; some experts have suggested how government can effectively engage young people for the development.
ZEB OSHIOLE, who is a financial expert, said the youth can be made to use their energy for the benefit of the economy, if government can create the right environment for that to happen.
“There’s no harm in the youth being in governance. I mean, the youth of today technically; the ones with the brilliant ideas can change things. There are a lot of businesses out there that even youths of nowadays are trying to start; so they need back up, they need government intervention; not just looking down on them.”
Also speaking; EMILIA ASIM-ITA, who is a youth advocate, admitted that government had failed to invest enough in the development of the youth.
She said: “Young people in Nigeria are very resourceful, they are very energetic, they are very entrepreneurial, but unfortunately, most of their potential and skills have not been harnessed by the government, primarily. And the government has not been living up to her social contract in providing access to qualitative education, good healthcare services, as well as a thriving economy where they can really fulfill their potential.”
However; EMILIA ASIM-ITA said to overcome the challenge before young people in Nigeria is for them to take advantage of available opportunities.
“A lot of young people have taken their destinies into their hands by coming up with interesting inventions, technological innovations, and starting up micro, small and medium scale enterprises. You know, on both sides, you have a side where the government is not doing enough, and you also have a side where, young people are really on their own; without any form of government support or help are really building wealth and contributing to our development as a country”, she added.