Bauchi Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau on Sunday, tasked youths and women in Northern Nigeria to use the region’s rich cultural heritage to assist in addressing the numerous challenges affecting the progress and development of the region.
Speaking at the 2024 Arewa Youths International Carnival held at Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi State, organized by the Arewa Youths and Women for Change Organization, Auwal Jatau described the occasion as a beautiful platform to celebrate and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the northern youth.
The Deputy Governor, who is the Chairman of the occasion, said, “We are gathered here not only to revel in our diverse traditions but also to recognize the invaluable contributions of our youths and women to our cultural development. You are the heartbeat of our communities who would contribute to nurture and sustain our cultural heritage,”
He said while celebrating the heritage through dance, music, and art, there is need to at the same time reflect on the pressing need for youth engagement in the decision-making processes that shape our society and therefore suggested that the occasion should be used as a forum to showcase culture to forge a vision for the development of the north.
He reiterated Governor Bala’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of young men and women are not just heard but actively integrated into the state’s governance framework.
According to him, the administration’s youth-friendly policies are designed with youth in mind, and it has launched several initiatives aimed at empowering young men and women to provide them with the resources and opportunities to thrive.
The Deputy Governor said on Education and Skills Development, the state government understands the importance of education as a foundation for success and has therefore prioritized educational reforms, including scholarships, vocational training programs, and partnerships with various institutions to equip youth with the skills needed in today’s job market.
On Youths Participation in Governance, Auwal Jatau noted that the administration has fostered an inclusive political environment by creating platforms for youth and women to engage in discussions about policy-making as their insights and perspectives are crucial in addressing.
According to him, “As we enjoy today’s festivities, I urge you to take advantage of these opportunities and embrace the spirit of unity and collaboration. The challenges we face as a region and as a nation can only be overcome when we work together.”
“We must foster a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood that transcends our differences. Let us stand together in our pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity,” he added.
On his part, the Minister of State for Youths, Ayodele Alawande commended the leadership of the Arewa Youths and Women for Change Organization for the unwavering dedication towards uplifting youth and promoting cultural heritage.
The Minister who mentioned some of the youths friendly policies of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for youth development, said the Student loan program in particular was designed to assist students in completing their tertiary education to enable them to become useful members of society as contained in a statement by Muslim Lawal, Special Assistant (Media) Deputy Governor’s Office, Bauchi.
