Nigerian youths have been advised to utilise the vast available and unexploited opportunities in the country to enable them unleash their potential and contribute to national development.

The Chief Executive Officer, Africa for Africa Youth Initiative, Henry Akasili, who gave the charge during the Constitutional Conference in Lagos on Friday, enjoined youths to desist from massive migration abroad for greener pastures. He affirmed that there are many opportunities waiting to be tapped in the country.

Akasili noted that the essence of the conference, which was organised by Africa for Africa Youth Initiative, was to discuss the future of Africa, adding that the continent is faced with policies that are not always in the people’s favour, as they do not reflect the true potential of Nigerians.

He called for collaboration, noting that to achieve true progress in the country, all stakeholders need to come on board.

On his part, a former Member of the Federal House of Representatives for Esan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency, Edo State, Sergius Ogun, encouraged the youths to develop interest and get involved in politics.

Ogun, however, stated that the youths would have to create a niche at their local communities to position themselves for leadership roles.

Speaking on his plan to connect with the Africa for Africa Youth Initiative, the former lawmaker said that he will always be available to counsel and to mentor Nigerian youths on how not to indulge in dirty politics.

Also at the event, the Managing Director, Network Oil and Gas Ltd, Dr. Ben Ubido, said that there are so many areas like agriculture that have not been explored in the country.

He, therefore, advised the youths to leverage their potential in agriculture, saying that food is very vital in any nation around the world.

Deacon Armstrong Oyakhilome who was a former staff of the World Bank and consultant for IITA, spoke on the career progression in civil service as one of the available opportunities for youths to develop themselves. He advised young Nigerians to pursue their careers in the civil service.

The event beamed its searchlight on role of the local government in the delivery of democratic dividends in the wake of economic instability, food insecurity and pressure from international organisations.

Africa for Africa Youth Initiative is committed to changing the negative narratives that have defined the continent and initiate socio-political atmosphere where everyone can thrive.

The group, which aims to provide support for young Africans, believes that young people of Africa should be driving solutions to the problems of the continent as they are the future of Africa. It also aims to saturate the positives of Africa.