A non governmental organization Actionaid, has partnered Activista Lagos to commemorate the 2016 International Youth Day in line with its commitment to empower youth and create platforms to help them achieve their dreams.

With the theme, ‘Inequality And Young People In Nigeria: The Role of Effective Tax Administration System” the annual International Youth Day is a day designated by the United Nations (UN) to enable governments all over the world draw attention to issues surrounding youths.

Members of Actionaid and Activista Lagos commemorating the 2016 International Youth Day

In line with its support to the youths, Activista has always been working to empower and enable young people to actively participate in the decision making and political processes that affect their lives and facilitate a one day program at International Press Centre, Dideolu Estate, Ogba.

Flagging off the program, Seriki Muritala, Speaker Lagos Youth Parliament, said: “The youths need to start engaging the government now for the fact that we are today’s leaders and no longer tomorrow’s leaders. It’s not about the government, it is about us because we are the change we are looking for and the youths should not be deceived with the statement that thee youths are the leaders of tomorrow.”

Also speaking at the event, Tim Ayoola, President World Changers International, said it’s time for Nigerian Youths to stop complaining and take their spaces in governance, noting that “when you leave governance in the hands of carpenters or tailors you will definitely have budget padding.”

According to Ayoola, “The participation of youths in politics is very low. As a result of this, we have been deprived of what is ours. Let’s stop speaking grammars and speak what is useful in governance. Until we have right people in government, the change we seek for will only be a dream.”

On his part, Rasheed Olakunle, Coordinator of Activista Lagos urged the youths to occupy the social media by uploading bad roads, corrupt practices and rather than uploading selfie pictures always.

“Most times, the youths will prefer to go clubbing or attend Celebrities show rather than attending governance lectures or events. We have a hand in the problem we are currently facing and that is why we must remain patriotic to see the change we want in our community.”

The programme, which attracted young people from various institutions in Lagos, also featured interactive discussion series on leadership.