*Youth-led farmers network Inaugurated
By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Progressive Young Leaders Summit 2024 concluded on a high note, with over 6,000 young Nigerians from across the 36 states gathering for three days of dynamic dialogue, development, and networking to share in the energy, vision, and determination of the next generation of Nigerian leaders. The summit, which took place at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, from September 3rd to 5th,2024 and was declared open by APC National Chairman, His Excellence Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The landmark event which was organized by the APC National Youth Leader, Dr. Dayo Israel aimed at fostering youth inclusion in governance, agriculture, technology, and economic growth, marked a significant step toward empowering the country’s future.
One of the summit’s defining moments was the inauguration of the Progressive Young Farmers Network/Cooperative Society, a youth-led initiative poised to revolutionize agriculture in Nigeria. The launch, spearheaded by Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, The Honorable Minister of State for Agriculture and was attended by Barrister Hannatu Musawa,The Honorable Minister of Art and Culture; Prince Shuaibu Audu,
The Honourable Minister for Steel Development and Hon. Uba Maigari, The Honorable Minister of State for Steel Development, Ambassadors/Consul of Zimbabwe, Bulgaria, Israel, Burundi, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh, Mexico, China alongside Zonal and State Youth Leaders.
The initiative offers young farmers access to government agricultural interventions, including training, skills development, and resources to enhance Nigeria’s food security.
The summit culminated in a vibrant closing Gala Dinner, where more than 4,000 participants celebrated the wealth of lessons, opportunities, and partnerships formed over the summit’s duration. Despite logistical challenges, the event ran smoothly, thanks to the support of special guests, sponsors, security personnel, and volunteers.
The evening was a mix of joy and reflection, as young leaders rekindled their commitment to building a better and stronger Nigeria.
The Progressive Young Leaders Summit 2024 underscored the importance of youth engagement in shaping the nation’s future. The summit not only created a platform for the exchange of innovative ideas but also generated concrete solutions to some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
The inauguration of the Progressive Young Farmers Network stands out as one of many initiatives that will empower Nigerian youth in the months and years to come.
” As a farmer’s son myself, it gives me immense pride to have conceived this initiative, which will nurture the next generation of agribusiness professionals and I also extend our deepest gratitude to all our partners, participants, and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions. As we move forward, we remain committed to ensuring that the voices of Nigeria’s youth are heard loud and clear in the national discourse,” said Dr. Dayo Israel, The APC National Youth Leader.
The resounding success of the summit affirms the critical role that youth will continue to play in the nation’s development across sectors, from governance to technology and agriculture.
