MWF Legacy Conference: Youths Remain Pivotal to Nigeria, Africa’s Development Agenda – Shettima

MWF Legacy Conference: Youths Remain Pivotal to Nigeria, Africa’s Development Agenda – Shettima

The Vice-President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has commended initiatives like the Mandela Washington Fellows for their leadership and service model which are essential to development of Nigeria and the rest of Africa.

The Vice-President said policies like African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063 present numerous opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

Shettima who was represented by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, mentioned during Pan-African Legacy Conference organised by the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) to commemorate a decade of the Fellowship’s existence.

The conference themed, “Shaping Africa’s Future through the AfCFTA and Agenda 2063” took place on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the presidential villa, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

“AfCFTA is not just about trade; it is about creating opportunities for our youth to connect, innovate, and lead Africa into a new era of prosperity. Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated and prosperous Africa, but it is the energy, creativity, and resilience of our youth that will transform this vision into reality,” he said.

“You have shown us what is possible when the youth are given the tools to succeed. Your work in education, healthcare, and social justice serves as an inspiration for generations to come.”

“Our engagement with the youth is not symbolic; it is a necessity. By infusing fresh ideas into seasoned experience, we create a synergy that strengthens our nation. You are not spectators; you are architects of the future. This government is your partner in progress, and together, we will shape a legacy that future generations will be proud of, ” Shettima said.

On her part Hajiya Hauwa Liman, the Technical Adviser to the Vice-President on Women, Youth Engagement and Impact, applauded the launch of ‘Ubuntu App’ while stating is promising towards fostering intra-Africa trade.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a unique opportunity to redefine Africa’s economic trajectory, while Agenda 2063 provides the roadmap for an Africa with shared prosperity, unity, and innovation.

“Today, as we launch the Ubuntu Trade App, we mark a significant milestone in fostering intra-African trade, empowering young entrepreneurs, and creating access to markets that transcend borders.”

“As we gather here, let us remember that Africa’s future rests in our hands. With over 60 per cent of Africa’s population under the age of 25, we have a demographic advantage that, if harnessed effectively, can position our continent as a global powerhouse,” she said.