Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a comprehensive national framework to nurture youth leadership, cautioning that Nigeria’s large young population could become a burden if not strategically managed.
Speaking at the Abuja Dialogue 2026 held in Abuja on Monday, Shettima stressed that Nigeria’s demographic profile must be treated as a “strategic reality” rather than mere rhetoric.
The event, organised by the Office of the Vice President in collaboration with the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of leadership in the country.
“We are one of the youngest nations on earth. That fact should not be reduced to a conference talking point or brochure statistic. It carries profound national consequences,” Shettima said.
He argued that sustainable development depends not just on natural resources or policies, but on deliberate systems that ensure leadership continuity. According to him, modern leadership must be cultivated through structured pathways that prepare young people for governance and other critical sectors.
“Youth leadership is not a ceremonial transition that comes with age. It is a deliberate process where young people are trained, integrated, and empowered within institutions shaping our future,” he added.
The Vice President emphasized the need for reforms across education, public service, enterprise, and civic spaces to create opportunities for young Nigerians to gradually assume responsibility.
“Leadership grows when young people are given the chance to learn, contribute, make decisions, and be accountable. Responsibility is where capacity is built,” he noted.
Addressing young Nigerians directly, Shettima described the moment as both an opportunity and a duty to participate in nation-building, stressing that leadership is defined by responsibility and long-term vision rather than age.
He also commended Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and the academy for convening the dialogue, describing it as vital to advancing discussions on leadership renewal.
In his remarks, Sanwo-Olu said the dialogue reflects growing recognition of youth leadership as a national priority. He highlighted Lagos State’s efforts to institutionalise youth development through programmes driven by the academy.
The governor explained that the initiative functions as a talent incubator, providing hands-on public sector experience, mentorship, and opportunities for young Nigerians to tackle real-world challenges.
Other speakers at the event echoed similar sentiments. Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, described youth leadership as critical infrastructure for national development.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, noted that Nigerian youths are ready to lead and reaffirmed government commitment to creating enabling platforms.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary of the academy, Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, said the dialogue aims to shift youth policies from rhetoric to actionable programmes that strengthen institutions and drive long-term resilience.
The Abuja Dialogue 2026, she added, represents a step toward building consensus on placing youth leadership at the centre of governance and economic growth in Nigeria.