President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Abuja today for the United Kingdom, where he will begin a two-week vacation as part of his annual leave. According to a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President intends to use this period as a working vacation and a retreat to reflect on the economic reforms introduced by his administration.

The President is scheduled to return to Nigeria at the conclusion of his leave. He departed the capital at precisely 2:35 p.m., following a brief exchange of pleasantries with senior government officials in Abuja.

President Tinubu recently delivered a speech to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, during which he revealed plans to convene a 30-day conference focused on engaging the country’s youth in governance. He indicated that the framework and selection of delegates for the conference would be outlined shortly.

“As we strive to overcome the challenges of today, we remain conscious of the next generation, seeking to harness their creative energy to build a better future,” President Tinubu said during his second Independence Day address since assuming office on 29 May 2023.

He added, “We lead today with a vision of the future we intend to hand over to our children, fully aware that we cannot shape this future without involving them as key architects.”

The President also announced the establishment of a National Youth Conference, designed to tackle the various challenges and opportunities faced by young Nigerians, who make up more than 60% of the population. The conference aims to foster meaningful dialogue and encourage youth participation in nation-building, addressing issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice.

“The government will closely collaborate with youth representatives to ensure their aspirations are central to the discussions. The outcomes of the conference will be carefully considered and implemented, as part of our commitment to creating a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria,” Tinubu said.

Reflecting on the broader aims of his administration, the President reiterated his commitment to reforming Nigeria’s political economy and defence framework to ensure the country’s long-term survival. He praised the resilience of the Nigerian people, stating that the nation has overcome crises that have fractured other countries.

In his speech, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to defeat banditry and terrorism, allowing displaced farmers to return to their lands and boosting food production to combat rising prices.