Tinubu to youths: Challenge govt policies, offer better alternatives

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian youths to openly challenge government policies they disagree with and present better alternatives.

Tinubu made the call while declaring open the National Youth Confab 2026 in Lagos on Friday, October 2, 2026, saying the government believes in the ability of young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.

The president said the conference was designed to give youths more than just representation, but a platform to influence national decisions.

He wrote on X: “Today, we open the National Youth Confab 2026. The message to every young Nigerian is this: Our dear country believes in you and in what you can do for its future.

“When I proposed this Confab, I wanted young Nigerians to have more than a seat in the room. Your experience and ambition should help shape the decisions that affect your lives.”

Tinubu urged participants to express their views freely, particularly when they disagree with government policies, but enjoined them to accompany their criticism with alternative solutions.

2027: Wike stakes ministerial seat on Tinubu’s Rivers, FCT victory

Tinubu said the virtual consultation component of the confab would run for two weeks, allowing young Nigerians across the country and those in the diaspora to participate.

The president stated: “Say what you think. Where you disagree with us, say so, and bring the alternative with you. Our job as a government is to listen and act on what deserves action.

“The virtual consultations run for the next two weeks and are open to you wherever you are, at home or in the diaspora.

“I look forward to receiving your recommendations and giving them the serious consideration they deserve.”