Former Jigawa State Governor and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Sule Lamido, has called for greater investment in Nigerian youths, describing them as the country’s strongest force for achieving meaningful political, economic and social change.

Lamido made the call on Wednesday in Abuja while serving as chairman of an event organised by the PDP to mark International Youth Day. He was represented at the occasion by former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Ali Pantami.

The former governor said the size of Nigeria’s youth population made their involvement in governance and national decision-making unavoidable, stressing that young Nigerians account for more than 60 per cent of the country’s population.

According to him, no meaningful progress can be achieved without giving young people the opportunity to participate and contribute their ideas.

Lamido, however, expressed concern over the growing unemployment crisis facing young Nigerians, particularly graduates who struggle to secure jobs in an increasingly competitive economy.

He also warned that the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies could further disrupt the labour market if young Nigerians were not adequately equipped with relevant skills.

The PDP chieftain blamed part of the crisis on an education system that has failed to keep pace with modern economic realities. He called for a fundamental review of curricula, improved training and greater investment in modern educational infrastructure.

Lamido argued that Nigerian universities and other institutions should focus on producing graduates capable of creating opportunities rather than preparing young people solely to seek employment.

He further identified inadequate mentorship and the rising cost of living as major obstacles limiting the ability of young Nigerians to realise their potential.

On politics, Lamido criticised the high financial cost of contesting elections, saying the “Not Too Young To Run” policy would remain largely theoretical unless young people were given practical support to participate in politics.

He urged the PDP and other political stakeholders to develop concrete programmes focused on youth employment, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, mentorship and affordable political participation.

“Without you, there is no Nigeria. You are in the majority,” Lamido told the youths, describing them as the backbone of the country and the vanguard of positive change.

He called on the older generation to mentor and support young Nigerians while creating the institutional and economic conditions necessary for them to take a greater role in shaping the country’s future.