2026 International Youth Day, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives candidate for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, Chief Toyin Amuzu, has called for greater investment in young people, stressing that the future of Nigeria depends on creating genuine opportunities for the youth to thrive. Amuzu, in a message to commemorate the day, said the 2026 theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” underscores the shared hopes of young people across different communities and circumstances. He said although young people may face different challenges, their aspirations remain largely the same and these include, "access to quality education, decent employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, inclusion, dignity and the chance to build a better future". According to the PDP Reps Candidate, young Nigerians should no longer be viewed merely as “leaders of tomorrow,” but as important stakeholders and leaders who must be given meaningful opportunities to contribute to national development today. Amuzu said government and political leaders must move beyond rhetorics stressing that if elected, he would be at the forefront of developing policies and programmes that will equip young people with relevant skills, support entrepreneurship, encourage innovation and create pathways to sustainable employment. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that young people have a voice in decision-making, particularly on issues that directly affect their future. “Different contexts may shape the experiences of our young people, but their aspirations are common. They want opportunities, dignity, inclusion and a future they can believe in,” Amuzu said. He urged young people in Abeokuta South and across Ogun State to remain resilient, acquire relevant skills, embrace enterprise and participate actively in the political and development processes of their communities. The PDP candidate reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that promote youth empowerment, talent development and economic opportunities, saying that “the future we desire must be built with our young people, not merely for them.” He congratulated Nigerian youths and young people across the world on the occasion, urging stakeholders to make youth development a sustained priority rather than an annual celebration. “Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow. They are partners and leaders of today. We must give them the tools, opportunities and platform to succeed,” he said.
