• As The Companion holds 6th National Discourse
In a bid to curb the increasing trend of young Nigerians seeking greener pastures abroad, top government officials and stakeholders have urged the youths to tap into emerging opportunities in the country.
This call came at the 2024 Conference & 6th National Discourse organised by The Companion, an association of Muslim men and women in business and professions, in Abuja, on Saturday, August 10, with the theme “Between Patriotism & Self-Preservation”.
Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who represented the Chairman at the conference, RT. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker, House of Representatives, gave the opening remarks assuring participants that the legislative arm of government is working tirelessly to create an enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive.
The Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, who was represented by Minister of Youth for State, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, highlighted some of the key programmes in the current administration to encourage patriotism.
He noted that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives, such as NELFUND, are designed to support and empower the youths.
Guest Speaker at the event, Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission represented by Honourable Terab Abdulrahman, shared heartbreaking stories of Nigerians who embarked on perilous journeys to Libya and other countries, only to regret their decisions. She emphasized the need to discourage the ‘japa’ syndrome.
JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, who was also represented by Prof. Abdulhakeem Lasisi, emphasized the importance of building on value, talent, and practical experience in a supportive environment.
He encouraged young Nigerians to strive for accomplishment, not just financial gain.
Participants during a polling session at the event called on the government to create an enabling environment inorder to discourage the ‘japa’ syndrome.
The call to action aims to redirect the youths’ focus towards exploring opportunities in Nigeria, fostering a sense of patriotism and contributing to the country’s growth and development.
On his part, the national amir of the Companion, Kamil Olalekan, said it was estimated that Nigeria loses approximately $10 billion annually to brain drain.
He called on all public officeholders to be at the vanguard of national patriotism by prioritising the production and consumption of made-in-Nigeria goods and services to boost youth employment and empowerment.
”In this way, the abundant talents, innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth will be unleashed to benefit the country.”
Some of the beautiful faces at the event
