Sustainable Development – Citizen Voices Empowerment Foundation https://www.cvef.org.ng Turning Voices to Action for Socioeconomic and Climate Justice, and Empowering Communities to Drive Meaningful Change Sun, 27 Jul 2025 12:41:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://sitepad.com/?v=5.1.6 https://www.cvef.org.ng/sitepad-data/uploads/2025/07/cropped-CVEF-Logo-Empowering-Voices-for-Change-1-32x32.png Sustainable Development – Citizen Voices Empowerment Foundation https://www.cvef.org.ng 32 32 Press Release: Lack of Structural Youth Empowerment a Major Obstacle to Nigeria’s Development – Oketa Calls for Immediate Establishment of National Youth Fund https://www.cvef.org.ng/post-press-release-lack-of-structural-youth-empowerment-a-major-obstacle-to-nigerias-development-oketa-calls-for-immediate-establishment-of-national-youth-fund/ Sun, 13 Jul 2025 02:58:09 +0000 https://cvef.org.ng/?p=559

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: 12th July 2025

Lack of Structural Youth Empowerment a Major Obstacle to Nigeria’s Development – Oketa Calls for Immediate Establishment of National Youth Fund

Abuja, Nigeria – As Nigeria continues to confront persistent youth unemployment, underemployment, and a growing sense of exclusion, leadership advocate and youth development strategist, Ijigban Daniel Oketa, has called for urgent action to institutionalize youth empowerment as a national priority.

In a strong policy framework submitted to the National Youth Conference 2025 Committee, Oketa emphasized that youth empowerment must go beyond slogans to become structurally embedded in government policy. He described Nigeria’s current fragmented and short-term approach to youth programs as “a significant barrier to national growth and cohesion.”

“Youth are the engine of growth and the most productive force in the economy. But without institutionalized support, we are wasting our greatest national asset,” Oketa said.

He stressed that a structured and inclusive empowerment framework would help eliminate systemic inequality and reduce the culture of “survival of the fittest” that often drives corruption and political manipulation.

Referencing a statement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—“Youth will not be exploited to do the bidding of the government. Instead, our administration will work with and for the youth, providing them with a platform through which they may fulfill their greatest aspirations”—Oketa urged the government to match rhetoric with decisive action.

He called on the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of the bill for the National Youth Fund for Economic Empowerment and Leadership, which is currently under review. His policy submission includes recommendations such as:

·         Expanding the youth beneficiary age limit and reason.

·         Establishing a 10-year structural funding plan to support youth entrepreneurship and leadership programs.

·         Appointing a visionary youth CEO of certain age bracket to lead the Fund’s secretariat.

·         Integrating the Fund into the national budget with annual impact and financial reports.


“This Fund, if passed and implemented transparently, will not only transform lives but also restore hope and inspire a new generation of productive citizens,” Oketa added.

The National Youth Fund, he said, must become the institutional platform through which Nigerian youth access real opportunities to innovate, build, and lead.

Ijigban Daniel Oketa
Executive Director: Citizen Voices Empowerment Foundation and Convener- National Youth Coalition for Transformative Leadership Initiative (NYC-TLI)
Abuja Nigeria.

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A New Nigeria Begins with the National Youth Coalition for Transformative Leadership” https://www.cvef.org.ng/post-a-new-nigeria-begins-with-the-national-youth-coalition-for-transformative-leadership-initiative/ https://www.cvef.org.ng/post-a-new-nigeria-begins-with-the-national-youth-coalition-for-transformative-leadership-initiative/#respond Tue, 10 Jun 2025 18:14:58 +0000 https://cvef.org.ng/?p=544

Nigeria stands at a defining moment in her history. A moment where the frustration of the past meets the urgency of the future. A moment where millions of young people, weary of broken promises and recycled leadership, are awakening to the reality that change will not come from above; it must rise from within. It is within this context that the National Youth Coalition for Transformative Leadership Initiative (NYC-TLI) emerges as not just necessary but urgent.


Why Now?

Nigeria is home to over 100 million young people under the age of 35 — a generation full of creativity, energy, and ambition. Yet, this demographic remains grossly underrepresented in governance, overlooked in policy, and often used as political pawns rather than powerful participants. As the country moves closer to the 2027 and 2031 general elections, it is clear: the youth must no longer be spectators or tools but become leaders and architects.

The country is burdened with leadership deficits that have resulted in corruption, poor infrastructure, insecurity, and economic stagnation. For too long, power has been recycled among those who lack the vision, integrity, and urgency to move the nation forward. It is time to disrupt that pattern — not with violence or chaos, but with organized, strategic, and values-driven youth leadership.

The Birth of a Visionary Movement

The National Youth Coalition for Transformative Leadership Initiative (NYC-TLI) is not just another platform. It is a nationwide, youth-led movement with a singular mission:

To unite, equip, and mobilize Nigerian youth to take ownership of the country's future through ethical, inclusive, and visionary leadership.

At the core of NYC-TLI is a bold vision: That by the year 2031, a youthful, thoughtful Nigerian with the strategy, character, and competence to build a new Nigeria will emerge as President, leading the nation and the African continent into a new era of transformation that may transcend centuries.

What Makes NYC-TLI Different?

This coalition is built on the foundation of: Strategic Leadership Development – Training young Nigerians across all states in governance, policy, and civic responsibility.

1. Nationwide Mobilization – Building a network of youth hubs in schools, campuses, local governments, and the diaspora.

2. Issue-Based Engagement – Focusing on results, not rhetoric — and policies that reflect the real aspirations of Nigerians.

3. Inclusive and Ethical Leadership – Prioritizing integrity, justice, innovation, and unity above tribe, religion, or class.

The 2027–2031 Roadmap

NYC-TLI is not aiming for instant political takeovers — it is building momentum. The roadmap is clear:

In 2027, Nigerian youth must influence and shape the outcome of the elections with conscious, united votes and grassroots coordination.
In 2031, a youth-led candidacy must emerge; one capable of delivering the long-sought transformation and restoring the soul of the nation.

This is not mere idealism. It is a strategic revolution of values, minds, and systems.

A Global Movement, A National Mandate

This is more than a political initiative. It is a global call to action. NYC-TLI invites partners, institutions, civil society, and development organizations to align with its vision for a transformed Nigeria. The coalition is not anti-elder; it is pro-youth and pro-progress, seeking intergenerational collaboration with a youthful lead.

In Conclusion: Nigeria Cannot Wait Any Longer

Every generation has a defining mission. For Nigerian youth, that mission is clear: to reclaim our future and rebuild our nation. The urgency is real. The potential is within reach. But the question remains:

Will this generation rise to the occasion or retreat into history as just another wasted opportunity?


Let it be known that the National Youth Coalition for Transformative Leadership Initiative has chosen to rise. Now, it's your turn.

📣 Join the Movement Today
Visit www.cvef.org.ng/youthcoalition
Follow us on social media @YouthCoalitionNigeria | +234 704 187 0557
Together, we can deliver the Nigeria we deserve.

Powered By Citizen Voices Empowerment Foundation (CVEF)

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Africa Leadership Summit 2025: Shaping the Future of a Thriving Continent https://www.cvef.org.ng/africa-leadership-summit-2025/ https://www.cvef.org.ng/africa-leadership-summit-2025/#respond Sat, 01 Feb 2025 18:27:05 +0000 https://cvef.org.ng/?p=111

The Africa Leadership Summit 2025 is set to be a landmark gathering, uniting visionaries, policymakers, industry leaders, and changemakers dedicated to shaping a prosperous and resilient Africa. As the continent navigates rapid technological advancements, economic shifts, and social transformations, this summit will serve as a catalyst for strategic collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development.

A Platform for Impactful Change

Powered by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN),  with support and fundingfrom multilateral institutions, private sector contributions, multinational/government seed funding, sovereign wealth funds, and philanthropic foundations, this high-impact summit will focus on civic engagement, human rights, economic empowerment, governance, media freedom, health justice, and climate action—key pillars driving Africa’s progress. Through inspiring keynotes, expert panel discussions, and interactive sessions, participants will explore cutting-edge solutions to Africa’s most pressing challenges while unlocking new opportunities for growth and transformation.

Create an image for _Africa Leadership Summit_ Add the flag image of all Africa countries. Make Nige... (1)

Unique Features

With funding from multilateral institutions, private sector contributions, multinational/government seed funding, sovereign wealth funds, and philanthropic foundations, the Africa Leadership Summit 2025 will catalyze the following initiatives: 

1. The Five Trillion Dollar Entrepreneurship and Leadership Innovation Fund for Africa (5T ELIF-Africa)

This groundbreaking financial initiative is designed to drive entrepreneurship and leadership excellence across the continent by: Empowering African Entrepreneurs – Providing financial backing for startups and SMEs to scale and compete globally through The Africa SME Bank (AFRISMEBank). 2. Leadership Development – Investing in the next generation of transformative leaders to drive policy, innovation, and sustainable growth. 3. Job Creation & Economic Expansion – Ensuring widespread economic participation by supporting businesses and employment generation. 4. Technology & Digital Innovation – Encouraging advancements in AI, fintech, renewable energy, and other critical sectors. 5. Sustainable Development & ESG Compliance – Aligning funding with environmentally and socially responsible investments.

2. The Africa SME Bank (AFRISMEBank)

As an offshoot of the Entrepreneurship and Leadership Innovation Fund, the Africa SME Bank (AFRISMEBank Ltd) is a proposed financial institution headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, dedicated to fostering African entrepreneurship through access to affordable capital. AFRISMEBank aims to bridge the financial gap for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups across Africa, empowering them to drive economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

Why Attend?

The summit will provide a unique opportunity to:

Engage with influential leaders and policymakers shaping Africa’s future.
Explore groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions for sustainable development.
Build powerful networks and partnerships to drive real impact.
Amplify voices and champion policy reforms that foster inclusion and empowerment.


Benefits of the Africa Leaders' Summit to Nigeria and the Federal Government

Hosting the Africa Leaders’ Summit in Abuja, Nigeria presents numerous economic, political, and strategic advantages for the country and the Federal Government.

1. Economic Benefits

·          Boost to Tourism and Hospitality Industry – The summit will attract thousands of delegates, boosting hotel bookings, local transportation, restaurants, and tourism.

·          Increased Foreign Investments – Nigeria will gain more global attention, attracting investors interested in business opportunities across various sectors.

·         Business and Trade Opportunities – Nigerian companies will have a platform to showcase innovations, products, and services to international investors.

·         Job Creation – The event will generate employment for event planners, security personnel, translators, media professionals, and service providers.

2. Diplomatic and Political Benefits

·         Strengthening Nigeria’s Leadership in Africa – Hosting the summit positions Nigeria as a key driver of Africa’s economic and political agenda.

·         Enhanced Bilateral and Multilateral Partnerships – The summit will facilitate partnerships between Nigeria and other African nations, fostering trade, security, and development cooperation

·         Platform for Policy Advocacy – Nigeria can use the summit to push for policies that benefit African nations, including fair trade agreements, regional integration, and sustainable development.

3. Social and Developmental Benefits

·         Capacity Building for Nigerian Entrepreneurs and Leaders – The summit will provide Nigerian youth, entrepreneurs, and policymakers access to leadership training, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

·         Infrastructure Development – The need to host international delegates may accelerate improvements in Abuja’s infrastructure, including roads, conference centers, and ICT facilities.

·         Showcasing Nigeria’s Potential – The event provides an opportunity to highlight Nigeria’s cultural heritage, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial spirit.

4. Security and Stability Benefits

·         Regional Security Collaboration – The summit will allow Nigeria to strengthen security ties with other African nations, addressing cross-border threats like terrorism, cybercrime, and economic instability.

·         Cementing Nigeria’s Role in Africa’s Stability and Progress – By hosting the summit, Nigeria demonstrates its commitment to fostering peace, stability, and economic prosperity in Africa.

5. Legacy and Long-Term Impact

·         Positioning Abuja as an International Conference Hub – Successfully hosting the event will solidify Abuja’s reputation as a prime destination for global conferences and summits.

·         Encouraging Sustainable Policies – The discussions and resolutions from the summit can influence Nigeria’s policies on leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

·         Stronger African Unity and Collaboration – Nigeria, as the host, will be at the forefront of shaping Africa’s collective vision for the future.

CVEF: Amplifying Voices for a Better Africa

As a key partner, Citizen Voices Empowerment Foundation (CVEF) is committed to ensuring that every African has a voice in shaping the policies and decisions that affect their lives. By amplifying civic participation, advocating for social justice, and fostering leadership excellence, CVEF empowers communities to be at the heart of Africa’s transformation.

Join the Movement – Be Part of the Change

The Africa Leadership Summit is more than just an event—it is a movement towards a thriving, innovative, and inclusive Africa. We invite individuals, organizations, policymakers, businesses, and development partners to join us in making this vision a reality.

🚀 Partner with Us | Sponsor | Volunteer | Speak at the Summit 🚀

📞 Contact Us: +234 703-738-4814, +234 704-187-0557
📧 Email: info@cvef.org.ng
🌐 Website: www.cvef.org.ng

Together, we can shape the future of Africa!

#AfricaLeadershipSummit2025 #ShapingAfrica #CVEF #Leadership #Transformation

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