Challenges of Youth Development in Nigeria

          On population criteria, people can be categorized as being fragile, energetic, or aged in nature. The fragile are the new entrants (dependent souls) in the society, the youths of any society are seen as the most active or energetic group of people often referred to as the ‘leaders of tomorrow’ (future leaders) while the aged are the most experienced of the group. Since independence through the 55th birthday of Nigeria, the youths are sidelined/redundant in the economy because the same old group (50years and above) still directs the activities of the nation from time immemorial.

          On cultural stand, the youths of nowadays as against the yester years have lost/neglected/substituted the values/heritage/norms ascertained/established by the general public owing to diverse reasons - economic downturn, family breakdown (divorce or separation), globalization to mention but a few.

          Religious wise, youths today show lesser interest in the teachings of religious representatives. Some derail from their religious values due to peer pressure, some due to global trends – culture (imitating their role models/actors personal life) while change of environment had huge impact on the behaviours portrayed by most youth today. Nevertheless, the economic implications on the lives of an average youth cannot be underestimated. Thus, the unfavourable economic policies predispose youths to indulge in non-acceptable behavior; prostitution, impersonation, armed robbery, theft, drug trafficking and so on.

          Owing to the issues and challenges bewitching the growth and development of the energetic group, it is expedient for various actors and stakeholders to come to the rescue. The family is the source for re-engineering the lost values of acceptable behavior. If the family member gets it right, then juvenile delinquency amongst other will be a mirage. The religious body must work endlessly to achieve the designated role of ensuring moral standards are held in high esteem by all and sundry in the society. In a case where the big names – old people – politicians goes to church for donation and thanksgiving services regardless of their atrocities, church/mosque should find means of debunking and correcting such acts where necessary in the public. The Nigerian government at all levels (federal, state, local) needs to fast track adequate mechanism for improving the cost and standard of living of the general populace amongst other.

          Drawing inferences from the aforementioned, Nigerian youths like other nations regardless of their energetic and productive tendencies experience numerous factors within and beyond their control, therefore limiting the use of such energy positively for self, immediate family and the nation as a whole.

Thanks for your attention.