Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Thursday asked youths across the country to take advantage of their numerical strength in demanding for good governance and enabling environment where their talents can be utilised.
This is as he also asked the younger generations not to allow those messing up with their future to take the mantle of leadership again in the country.
The former president, who was represented by the Deputy Chief Coordinator of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Dr Ayodele Aderinwale, spoke at the presidential youth mentorship retreat organised by the Youth Development Center of OOPL.
Obasanjo said, “The villagization of the globe has rendered geographical barriers largely irrelevant. The movement towards a knowledge economy has also meant that proper nuances eliminate barriers. In essence economic opportunities have become transborder in nature and manifestation. There are enormous opportunities for private initiatives in the national and global economic space.
“The young people should demand vociferously that our governments must enhance enabling entrepreneurial environment for young people is also a key to unleashing a culture of entrepreneurship among the youth. As this will have a broader impact in promoting sustainable development and addressing the barriers that specifically hinder young people like yourself to be economically empowered. Such empowerment will not only improve the individual life but also affect their community positively as they will serve as an agent of wealth creation.
“In conclusion, I am challenging you as young Africans to engage in activities that would change the African narrative by participating fully in all the socio-economic and political activities that guarantee a better future for you and not allowing those who are messing up your future to succeed.”
