In most parts of the world, even in countries not as rich and endowed as Nigeria, the primary goal is to empower and equip the youth for a brighter future and by doing so inadvertently destroying the recruitment market for crimes and destabilisation.

The time is ripe today, not even tomorrow, to consciously and genuinely make it a national priority to change the absurd, disgraceful and national embarrassment of our youths being dependants and almanjiris armed with plates roaming and seeking where to be served food! It is time to change their misfortune of being decorated “Oliver Twists” to national resources of being dependable (not dependant) contributors to the national treasury.

This is a pressing national issue that affects us all and is continuing to bring Nigeria not just national disgrace, but also bad name at the international level because of what our failure to prepare our youths for a brighter future has reduced the majority of them to. As I scrolled through my social media feeds recently, I was bombarded with requests for money from able-bodied men and women. It’s disheartening to see that only 20 per cent of our workforce is actively engaged in economic activities, while 80 per cent are dependent on others. This is a ticking time bomb, especially in northern Nigeria. These able-bodied individuals are potential recruits for violence and social unrest.

I recall a particular Sunday when my church, RCCG, hosted a feeding programme. I was shocked to see a mammoth crowd of boys trooping out from all nooks and corners of Lekki just to eat. It was a heartbreaking sight; but it also sparked an idea.

What if we could harness this energy and turn it into a huge workforce? What if we could provide these young men and women with skills, training, and mentorship, and empower them to become productive members of society?

Imagine if we could mobilise this army of able-bodied individuals to work on farms, construction sites, and other industries. Imagine the impact we could make on our economy, our communities, and our nation.

But it’s not just about the government; it’s also about organisations, individuals, and communities coming together to make a difference. We need to create opportunities for skills acquisition, mentorship, and job placement. We need to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders. We need to empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to succeed.

So, I call on the federal, state and local governments, community leaders, and all men of conscience to join forces in tackling this issue.
Let us work together to create a Nigeria where individuals have opportunities to contribute to the economy, to support themselves and their families, and to live a life of dignity and purpose.

The journey to greatness begins when you discover where your service is needed. As Acts 16:9 reminds us, “A vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us’.”

Rendering help to others is an assignment for each and every one of us. By adding value to others, we can create a better life for ourselves. It’s time for action! It’s never too late to turn your life around and start anew. You are not poor because you lack money; you are poor because you have no value to exchange for money.

Here’s a success formula: Seek the face of God Almighty; engage in skill acquisition to solve problems; commercialise the business and start smiling to the bank. With God on your side, the more problems you solve, the more valuable, influential, and wealthy you’ll become.

Change is inevitable, and it’s only possible when we choose to think and act differently. You can’t continue to do things the same way and expect different results. Your success starts from within. Change your mindset, dream big, and develop a roadmap to realise your dreams.

The talent of man makes a way for him. God has deposited so many talents in you; find time today to list your talents and develop two of them to a higher standard and commercialise your talents.

So, I urge you, don’t just sit back and wait for opportunities to come to you. Create your own opportunities. Seek out mentorship, training, and skills acquisition programmes.

And to the government and organisations, I say: Let’s work together to create a Nigeria where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s invest in our youth, our most valuable resource. Let us rise up and take action. Let us create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our nation.

To our young men and women, I say stop begging. Rise up and fight the battle of your destiny. Generals are made on the battlefield and not from the comfort of the bedroom. You will succeed!
*Alabi Esq. wrote from Lagos.