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International Youth Day: Nigerian Youths must Speak up – Chibuike Echem

Published

3 years ago

August 12, 2022

Bona Naija

In 1965, the United Nations General Assembly began making a concerted effort to impact the youth. They endorsed the Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect and Understanding between Peoples. They began devoting time and resources to empowering the youth by recognizing emerging leaders and providing them with resources to meet the world’s needs.

August 12, is a very important date in the global calendar. It is a day that the global community sets aside to celebrate the International Youth Day. The important purpose of this annual celebration going by information from the United Nation is to, among other things, raise voices against any injustice or discrimination happening in the world with the youth. Again, going by available records, International Youth Day was recognised by the UN when they passed a resolution towards creating it in 1999 at the UN General Assembly.

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Essentially, there was a need for this day because a very large amount of youth in the world are struggling with issues related to physical or mental health, education and employment and these issues need to be addressed. When the government or society does not focus on the proper development of the youth, they tend to become rebellious and opt for choices which are neither good for their development nor for their country.

As the global community uses workshops, concerts, conferences, cultural events, seminars and meetings involving national and local government officials and youth organisations to celebrate the day, while recognising the contributions of young people and volunteers who are working towards the betterment of society and are raising important issues that need more attention of the society, there are painful signs that the situation in Nigeria shows that instead of celebrating, the average Nigerian youth is currently in a state of frustration.

In Nigeria the frustration of these young victims was not only fuelled by the gap between the promises made in the past by the government without fulfilment but predicated on the ills that flow from bad leadership, which daily manifests in the ‘tradition’ of leading without recourse to transparency and accountability. And as a consequence, ‘stifles development, siphons all scarce resources that could improve infrastructure, bolster education systems and strengthen public health and stack the deck against the masses.

Youth unemployment is potentially dangerous as it sends a signal to all segments of Nigerian society. Here in Nigeria, the rate of youth unemployment is high, even during the period of economic normalcy and this remains the real cause of insecurity in Nigeria.

From the above, it is obvious that ‘we are in a dire state of strait because unemployment has diverse implications. Security-wise, the large unemployed youth population is a threat to the security of the few that are employed. Any transformation agenda that does not have job creation at the centre of its programme will take us nowhere.

From unemployment challenges to the poor education sector, it is accurately documented that many Nigerian children are out of school not because they are not willing to be educated but because the cost of education is beyond the reach of their parents. The public schools are short of teachers with dilapidated buildings. Private schools on the other hand where the environment is conducive to learning is cost-intensive and out of reach of so many students and their parents.

In like manner, the Academic Staff Union Of Universities has been on strike since February 14, 2022. The group embarked on such industrial action to protest the government’s inability to implement their demands on salaries and allowances of lecturers, and improved funding for universities. The implication is that for the past six months and counting, these youths have been idling away at home and the Federal Government has not considered the damage such failures impose on this future strength of the nation that their generation will provide the next leaders.

looking at the above painful situations, and considering the fact that Nigeria races to the 2023 general election, the question(s) may be asked: How far can the youth go in a nation where tribal loyalty is stronger than our common sense of nationhood? Can the youth effectively guard their courage? How far can the youths go as change agents in a country, where excruciating poverty and starvation continue to drive more people into the ranks of beggars, whose desperate struggle for bread renders them insensible to all feelings of decency and self-respect?

While the answer(s) to these questions is being awaited, the truth must be told to the effect that to make this year’s world youth day rewarding as well as change this trend, and achieve the objective of engaging youth in formal political mechanisms, increase the fairness of political processes by reducing democratic deficits, contributes to better and more sustainable policies, which have symbolic importance that can further contribute to restoring trust in public institutions, especially among youth, there are inescapable actions that the youths must take, there are steps/action plans that Nigerian youths must execute.

Separate from constructively and sustainably engaging the Federal Government, It will not in any way be described as out of place if the youths harness their population advantage and their demographic dividends to form a formidable opposition that holds the government accountable or better still seek political offices come 2023 general election.

It is important that Nigerian youths continue to speak up against violations of human rights, suppression of free speech and freedom of the press. Youths must not initiate, encourage or spread false, mischievous or divisive information capable, or with outright intent, of misleading the populace and disrupting societal harmony and peace. Within the ambience of the law, they must speak up with facts against any wrongdoing or oppression by the government or fellow citizens capable of endangering sustainable democracy and the effective delivery of good governance.

On December 17, 1999, the UN General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, and International Youth Day was born. It was first celebrated on August 12, 2000, and ever since the day has been used to educate society. Mobilize the youth in politics and manage resources to address global problems.

This year’s celebration is centered on the theme “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages.”

In line with the annual celebration of International Youth Day, I wish to celebrates with Nigerian youths inspiring Students expresses our heartfelt greetings.

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Related Topics:Dr Chibuike Echem International Youth Day 2022

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‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Blasts Sowore Over Comment on Tinubu

Published

7 hours ago

September 19, 2025

Bona Naija

‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Knocks Sowore for Calling Tinubu a Criminal

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized activist and politician Omoyele Sowore for labeling President Bola Tinubu a “criminal.”

Speaking on Thursday during the flag-off of the construction of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, Abuja, Wike said Sowore was “lucky” that Tinubu respects the rule of law, warning that not all leaders would tolerate such remarks.

“You Are Lucky,” Wike Tells Sowore

According to Wike:

“This is a country where somebody will go on social media and say Mr. President is a criminal and nothing will happen.

No matter how you see people criticize Trump, have you ever seen any Nigerian citizen on social media or in public say our president is a criminal? Have you ever heard that?

You are lucky you have a president that believes in the rule of law.

You are lucky, continue to be lucky because there are those you will meet and you won’t be lucky again.”

‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Knocks Sowore for Calling Tinubu a Criminalpic.twitter.com/Dc6UOzW48w
— BONA NAIJA (@BonaNaija) September 18, 2025

Wike Cites Nigeria’s Freedom of Speech

The minister argued that the ability of citizens to openly criticize Tinubu demonstrates the level of freedom in Nigeria compared to other countries, including the United States.

His comments come amid growing political tensions, with Sowore and other critics frequently attacking the administration over governance, economy, and democracy.

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Business

Nigerians React as Shoprite Shuts Down Stores in Ibadan, Ilorin, and Shelves Empty in Lagos, Abuja

Published

8 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Nigerians React as Shoprite Shuts Down Stores in Ibadan, Ilorin, and Shelves Empty in Lagos, Abuja

Shoprite shuts down outlets in Ibadan and Ilorin as shelves go empty in Lagos and Abuja. Nigerians react to the retail giant’s struggles amid inflation and rising competition.

Shoprite’s Struggles in Nigeria Deepen

Shoprite’s operations in Nigeria appear to be in crisis, four years after the South African retail giant exited the supermarket business.

Reports by Daily Trust confirm that outlets in Ibadan and Ilorin have closed, while stores still operating in Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities now have largely empty shelves.

From Expansion to Decline

Since opening its first Nigerian outlet in Lagos in 2005, Shoprite became a household name, growing into more than 25 stores across eight states and the Federal Capital Territory. At its peak, the chain directly employed over 2,000 workers and supported hundreds of local suppliers, particularly farmers.

But rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, and growing competition from local supermarkets have steadily weakened its dominance, pushing the brand into financial distress.

In 2021, Shoprite Holdings Limited sold its Nigerian business to local investors after retreating from several African markets including Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda—citing harsh operating conditions.

Nigerians React on Social Media

The closures have sparked a wave of reactions across social media, where Nigerians expressed a mix of nostalgia, disappointment, and calls for stronger homegrown supermarket chains.

On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags such as #ShopriteNigeria, #ShopriteClosure, and #NigerianRetail began trending:

“Shoprite shutting down is an end of an era. That place was our mini mall culture in the 2000s.” – @lagos_girl

“This should be a wake-up call. We need to support Nigerian-owned supermarkets like Justrite, Hubmart, and Ebeano.” – @naija_economist

“No more weekend hangouts at Shoprite. Sad, but not surprising with the way inflation is going.” – @femiwrites

“Shoprite was not just a supermarket, it was a social spot. I met my wife there in 2012. This hits different.” – @deji_lagos

“If Shoprite can’t survive here, it tells you everything about Nigeria’s business environment.” – @uchechukwu_onyi

What’s Next for Retail in Nigeria?

While many lament the decline of Shoprite, others see opportunity for local supermarkets to step into the gap. Brands like Justrite, Hubmart, Ebeano, and Spar could potentially take advantage of the vacuum.

With Shoprite’s uncertain future, the question remains: will Nigeria’s supermarket culture fade with its departure—or will indigenous brands reinvent it?

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Rivers Assembly Resumes After Six-Month Emergency Rule, Tasks Fubara on Commissioners and Budget

Published

14 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Rivers Assembly Resumes After Emergency Rule, Tasks Fubara

The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday reconvened for plenary, marking its first session since the expiration of the six-month state of emergency imposed by President Bola Tinubu.

The sitting, presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, held at the legislative quarters in Port Harcourt, comes just a day after Tinubu lifted emergency rule at midnight on September 17.

The emergency had been declared on March 18, 2025, following a constitutional impasse between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Assembly that crippled governance.

Before resumption, the outgone state administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, officially handed over to Governor Fubara and, in his farewell address, urged Rivers people to support the reinstated governor.

At Thursday’s plenary, the House passed two key resolutions: calling on Governor Fubara to immediately forward a list of Commissioner-nominees for screening and confirmation, and urging him to initiate the process of drafting an Appropriation Law for the remainder of the year.

Speaker Amaewhule stressed that these steps are vital for stabilising governance and ensuring effective service delivery. Lawmakers say the resolutions are aimed at normalising the state’s administration and addressing urgent citizen needs after months of political turbulence.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised the suspension and reinstatement of Governor Fubara and the Assembly, describing Tinubu’s actions as “unconstitutional, illegal, and a clear sign of dictatorship.”

Governor Fubara is yet to respond publicly to the House’s resolutions.

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Business

Dangote Refinery Rejects DAPPMAN’s ₦1.5trn Subsidy Demand

Published

15 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Dangote Refinery rejects DAPPMAN ₦1.505 trillion subsidy demand

Refinery insists it will not absorb logistics costs as marketers push for annual discount; warns subsidy practices defrauded Nigeria for years.

Dangote Refinery has dismissed claims by the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), insisting that it will not bow to pressure to fund a subsidy of more than ₦1.5 trillion annually.

In a statement issued yesterday, the refinery said the controversy with DAPPMAN stems from marketers’ demand for an annual subsidy of ₦1.505 trillion to cover coastal freight, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) charges, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) fees, and pumping costs. This, according to Dangote, would translate to an additional ₦75 per litre on petrol and diesel, which the marketers expect the refinery to absorb.

“We will not increase our gantry price to accommodate such demands, nor are we willing to pay a subsidy of over ₦1.5 trillion — a practice that historically defrauded the Federal Government,” the company said. “Marketers are free to lift products directly at our gantry and benefit from our logistics-free initiative.”

The refinery disclosed that it maintains a monthly closing stock of 500 million litres, adding that between June and September it exported 3.2 million metric tonnes of refined products. Over the same period, it alleged, marketers imported 3.6 million metric tonnes, describing the imports as “dumping” that undermines the economy and welfare of Nigerians.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, noting that its operations are helping to stabilise the naira, cushion the effect of subsidy removal, strengthen Nigeria’s refining capacity, boost foreign exchange earnings, and create jobs.

The company stressed that it enjoys a strong working relationship with government agencies but will not hesitate to hold institutions accountable where necessary.

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Ohanaeze Ndigbo Warns Soludo, Ekwunife, Ukachukwu Over Toxic Anambra 2025 Campaigns

Published

21 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Warns Soludo, Ekwunife, Ukachukwu Over Toxic Anambra 2025 Campaigns

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has issued a stern warning to leading candidates in the forthcoming Anambra governorship election over what it described as “shameful propaganda and divisive politicking.”

Anambra 2025 election

The group expressed deep concern at the conduct of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, his wife Mrs. Nnonye Soludo, APC candidate Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu, and his running mate Senator Uche Ekwunife, accusing them of dragging Anambra politics into “a pit of insults, hate speech, and public bickering.”

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo holds Governor Soludo especially responsible for setting this toxic tone,” the statement read. “The exchange of vulgar attacks, including the altercations between Mrs. Soludo and Senator Ekwunife, is unbecoming of leaders and an affront to womanhood.”

While stressing its neutrality, Ohanaeze warned it may be forced to support a neutral candidate if the attacks persist. “Enough is enough. If this disgraceful charade continues, we will question the moral and ethical fitness of these candidates to govern Ndi Anambra,” the statement declared.

The body urged all candidates to return to issue-based campaigns, focusing on policies, development, and the future of the state rather than personal insults.

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ANAMBRA 2025; STOP WASHING YOUR DIRTY LILIES OUTSIDE AND DISGRACEFUL CONTENT CREATIONS – OHANAEZE NDIGBO WARNS SOLUDO, WIFE, EKWUNIFE, AND UKACHUKWU

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, hereby issues a stern rebuke against the abhorrent politicking, divisive rhetoric, and shameless propaganda currently orchestrated by the Anambra gubernatorial candidates. We call for an immediate cessation of this disreputable conduct and demand a resumption of issue-based political campaigns as we approach the Anambra State Governorship Elections on November 9, 2025.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo feels compelled by its foundational mission to address the unsettling behavior exhibited by prominent political figures, specifically targeting the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) gubernatorial candidate and current Anambra Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo; his wife, Nnonye Soludo; the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy gubernatorial candidate, Iyom Uche Ekwunife; and the APC gubernatorial candidate, Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu. This distressing trend of engendering hate speech and broadcasting calumnies not only tarnishes the collective image of the Igbo Nation but also represents a significant departure from the hallmark of dignity and respect that our people are known for.

The indignation felt by our tribe is profound as these once-respected political figures stagger embarrassingly into the public sphere, engaged in a sordid display of politicking that is captivating for all the wrong reasons. Their continuous descent into the vile pit of vulgarities and vituperations—aimed at each other’s political opponents—is unbecoming of esteemed individuals and demonstrates a blatant disregard for the cultural tenets of integrity and decorum that the Igbo people hold dear.

Without hesitation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly holds Governor Soludo accountable for instigating this repugnant campaign of slander against his political adversaries. It is our duty to urge him to refrain from resorting to derogatory slogans and mockery, which undermine the very fabric of decency that should underpin political discourse. We categorically condemn the egregious verbal attacks exchanged between Governor Soludo’s wife and Senator Uche Ekwunife; such disgraceful behavior constitutes a lamentable affront to both motherhood and womanhood, and, as leaders, they must rise above this pettiness.

While Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains politically neutral in the forthcoming elections and does not endorse any particular candidate, we must unequivocally state that should Governor Soludo, his wife Nnonye, APC candidate Ukachukwu, and his running mate Ekwunife persist in their unscrupulous campaign tactics, we will be compelled to reconsider our stance. We may have no choice but to advocate for a neutral gubernatorial candidate in the elections as a drastic measure to quell this shameful spectacle. It becomes evident that continued participation in such a disgraceful charade raises serious questions about the moral and ethical qualifications of these candidates to govern the people of Anambra State.

In closing, let it be said with unwavering clarity: enough is enough. We implore all involved to return to issue-based campaigns and preserve the dignity of Anambra politics.

**Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro**

Deputy President General

Ohanaeze Ndigbo

Chief Chinemeze Ohia

National Spokesman

Ohanaeze Ndigbo

17th September 2025

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