By Ibrahim Ammani
Arewa Youth Assembly, has said members of the group will no longer participate in the planned August 1 nationwide protest, against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration
In a communique issued and read after the meeting by the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu noted that the conference theme, “Fuel Your Creativity: Choosing Entrepreneurship for Progress”, resonated well with the Northern youths and held significant potential for the benefit of the entire country.
According to the communique “We strongly oppose protests in any form, as they often lead to violence, loss of lives, and property damage. Instead, we advocate for constructive engagement with authorities through dialogue and peaceful means.”
“We strongly denounce protests under any guise, as they are counterproductive and can lead to violence, loss of lives, and destruction of properties. Therefore we have resolved that we will not be part of any protests. We call on Nigerian Youth to engage authorities constructively through peaceful and legal means, such as dialogue and constructive engagement.We, the youth of the Arewa Youth Assembly, remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, advocating for youth development, and promoting peace and progress in our nation.
“We call on all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to join hands with us in achieving these goalsWe, the youth, firmly resolve to embrace entrepreneurship as a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and foster wealth creation in Nigeria. We recognize that by developing our entrepreneurial skills and knowledge, we can become self-sustainable and reduce dependence on the government for employment opportunities”
“We call upon the government to implement robust measures aimed at developing the knowledge and skills of the youth. It is essential for the government to prioritize youth development and empowerment as a matter of urgency, both at the national and sub-national levels”
“We urge the Federal Government to address the prevailing issues of banditry and insurgency effectively. By ensuring security and stability.
“The youth can actively engage in the agricultural sector, which has significant potential for business opportunities and economic growth. We call upon Governments at the sub-national level, specifically the states, to prioritize youth development and empowerment. It is crucial for State Governments to allocate resources and create programs that support the growth and advancement of young people in their respective states”
“We advise youth across the country to seek enhanced knowledge, skills, and competencies required for competitiveness in the 21st century. It is imperative for young people to equip themselves with the necessary tools and adapt to the rapidly evolving global landscape”. Concluded.
In his remarks the Managing Director of Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Foundation, Engr. Abubakar Umar, asked the youths lay more emphasis on the importance of lawfulness and entrepreneurship rather than lawless protest.
He encouraged the youth to pursue self-reliance and reduce over-dependence on the government for employment.
Engr. Umar highlighted the destructive consequences of past protests, such as the End SARS protests, which resulted in significant property damage and loss of lives.
He urged the youth to channel their grievances through legal and constructive means, emphasizing dialogue with leaders as a more effective approach.
“We must come together and fashion a Marshall Plan for the development of the North West. Our plan must be people driven and all-inclusive,” Umar stated.
Sanusi Maikudi, a guest speaker at the event, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship for reaching prosperity.
He cautioned the youth against being manipulated by political interests and stressed the need for self-reliance and peaceful coexistence.
The convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Alhaji Muhammad Yakubu, expressed gratitude to the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for their collaboration in the event.
He urged the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and reduce dependence on government jobs, fostering economic development and personal fulfillment.
Religious leaders Dr. Adams Almanar and Sheikh Ibrahim Disina also addressed the assembly, warning against the repercussions of protests.urging the youth to engage in prayer and peaceful dialogue.