Foundation empowers youths for national development

Founder, The Rose of Sharon Foundation, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, has described youths as great assets and potential leaders of tomorrow who have great roles to play in national development.

She said this in Lagos during a Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP) with the theme, ‘Nigerian Youth as a tool for National Development.’

Alakija said that the future of Nigeria remains in the hands of youths as it is certain that today’s leaders would soon be out of scene.

He added that to disregard the youths and jettison every opportunity to prepare them for their future role would be tantamount to putting the nation in danger.

“The United Nations (UN) recognises 18 to 24 years of age as youth. Nigeria has the majority of youths who are potential demographic dividend to the country and refusal to lead them to this right direction will make them turn to vices such as terrorism, criminality and trafficking, among others,” she said.

One of the resource persons, Strategic Partner and Senior Consultant, Tom Associates Ltd., Mr Temitope Jegede, described elements of national development as creative minds, integrity, motivation and ability to add value to Nigeria.

He added that youths could be catalysts and agents that promote unity and peace in Nigeria.

Principal Consultant, Mekiliuwa Consulting Services Limited, Dr Joe Mekiliuwa, told youths to take advantage of their youthful age to develop their creative mind, identify their talents and never downplay the God factor.

Chief Executive Officer, A Smile on Their Faces Initiative, Mrs Funke Oga, advised the youth to be emphatic in their belief and unite for change.