The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has announced the commencement of preparations for the 2025 African/National Youth Day and Festival, set to hold from November 27 to 28 in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Minister described the annual celebration as “a platform to showcase the energy, innovation, creativity, and resilience of young people across Nigeria and the African continent.”

“This year’s celebration,” Olawande said, “is themed ‘From Aspiration to Action: Youth as Agents of Reparative Justice and Sustainable Development.’ It serves as a reminder that the future of Africa lies in the hands of its youth — a generation that is more connected, more informed, and more capable than ever.”

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Muhammed Abdullahi, the Minister emphasised that the festival would bring together youth leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and change-makers for a series of workshops, exhibitions, panel discussions, and performances, all aimed at advancing inclusion, innovation, and sustainable growth.

“The 2025 African/National Youth Day and Festival is more than an event,” Olawande stated. “It is a meeting of minds, a catalyst for collaboration, and a platform for dialogue on the issues shaping the future of our continent.”

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through sustained investments in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, the creative economy, and civic engagement.

According to the Minister, the government is also working closely with regional partners and international stakeholders to ensure that African youths have access to the mentorship, resources, and opportunities necessary for them to thrive in a fast-changing world.

Comrade Olawande called on the private sector, development agencies, civil society groups, and philanthropic individuals to support youth-led initiatives and the upcoming festival.

“The time has come for a truly Pan-African youth agenda — one that transcends borders and leverages our shared aspirations,” he said. “No investment in this direction would be too big or too small.”

In a rallying message to young people across Nigeria and the continent, the Minister urged them to seize the opportunity presented by the festival to network, innovate, and lead positive change.

“Your voices matter. Your ideas count. Your dreams are valid,” he declared. “The Nigerian and African dream of prosperity, peace, and unity cannot be realised without you. Let this festival be a spark that ignites new partnerships, bold ventures, and lasting solutions.”

He concluded by calling on all stakeholders — including state governments, the FCT Administration, and the organised private sector — to lend their support towards ensuring the success of the festival.