By Moses Nosike

Archbishop of the Metropolitan see of Lagos, His Grace, Most. Rev. Dr Alfred Adewale-Martins has tasked the Nigerian youths to invest meaningful every minute of their time in order to create jobs and become self-reliance.

This he said at the 39^th Archdiocesan Youth Day Celebration of Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria 2025 held in Lagos Business School, Lekki, Lagos.

According to him, one of the ways out of youth unemployment, poverty is for our youths to invest their time meaningfully for self development, job creation and to earn a good living in our country today.

Dr. Alfred Adewale-Martins advised them that though it is not easy to be a youth in Nigeria of today, the youth should be hardworking, remain focus and pursue their vision.

He further warned them against the vices in social media that has seriously become an avenue of distraction for many youths. “Most of our youths these days spend so much time on social media on things that would not add value to their lives”.

Speaking on the theme, “You Also Are My Witness Because You Have Been With Me”, the clergy advised the youth should not loose faith in the present challenges but stand for God at all times. “Depend on God who can help you to achieve your potential to help our Nigerian society”.

The outgoing Archdiocesan CYON Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Odunaiya, mentioned the benefit of maintaining good conducts and steadfast faith as youths. He reminded the youth that they have served God and supported His work and urged them not to grow weary in doing good and serving others. He challenged them to be exemplary believers, embodying good conduct in their daily lives.

In the same vein, Chaplain of CYON, Rev. Fr. Paulmary Otukpe, praised Catholic youths for their steadfastness amid worldly trends and distractions. “More than ever, the world needs Catholic youths who are bold and who shine as lights in darkness — a light that illuminates not just their lives but those around them”.

In addition, President of CYON, Chukwuemeka Anyiam-Osigwe, said that the passion of the youth continues to burn brightly. “Despite our challenges, we will overcome by relying on the Word and Christ our Lord, whose guidance directs our paths,” he declared. He also commended the efforts of members and the executive team in making the event a success, emphasizing that the Youth Day celebration exemplifies the love of Jesus Christ poured out upon us.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, David Izegaegbe, said, “the significance of the event, describing it as a pilgrimage — a journey of faith, fellowship, and purpose. It is a sacred occasion when thousands of young Catholic faithful from across the Archdiocese gather not only to pray and worship but also to encounter God and one another anew. The celebration blended spiritual and social elements, reinforcing that the Catholic identity is holistic, rooted in faith but expressed through relationships, culture, creativity, and community”.