Youth minister Ayodele Olawande has urged Nigerian youths to stop relying on ”immediate financial” gratification for long-term nation-building.

Mr Olawande made the call in Abuja on Sunday at a meeting with the national youth leaders of all political parties, known as the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria, and a hangout with Journalists.

The theme of the event is ‘The place of the youth in the political discussion of 2027 and beyond’.

Mr Olawande specifically told the youths to move beyond relying on political handouts and instead focus on skill building, entrepreneurship, and active, positive participation in national development.

”Utilise your youthfulness to develop the country. As youth leaders, we must think outside the box and not rely on the country’s budget.

”We are not too young to lead, serve or carry responsibilities. Youth inclusion in government is not a favour but a necessity. Nigeria has the potential of young, creative people, and we have the energy.

“Let our focus be on building Nigeria first as political leaders leading the youth; we must start building our capital,” the minister said.

The minister commended President Bola Tinubu for creating an atmosphere in which Nigerian youth can thrive.

He encouraged leveraging opportunities under the Renewed Hope Agenda to drive growth in technology and creative sectors.

The minister also said that through initiatives like NIYEEDEP, the ministry aims to create six million direct jobs for youth, focusing on food security.

”We need proper engagement with the youths. We are making an effort on youth engagement that will make them productive,” he said.

The minister urged youths to learn to support one another.

(NAN)