As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing society, the question of how young people can contribute meaningfully to national development remains more important than ever.
      It is against this backdrop that Ilorin, Kwara State, will host a symposium themed “The Role of Youth in Nation Building” on 1 October 2026, Nigeria’s Independence Day.
The symposium, scheduled for 12:00 p.m. at the NUJ Press Centre, Opposite St. Anthony School, Offa Road, Ilorin, is expected to provide a platform for ideas, dialogue and meaningful conversations around the place of young people in building stronger communities and a greater nation.
     Beyond Being the Leaders of Tomorrow
For decades, young Nigerians have often been described as “leaders of tomorrow.” However, the realities of today's Nigeria demand a different conversation.
Young people are not merely future leaders. They are already entrepreneurs, journalists, creatives, professionals, community organisers, innovators and change-makers contributing to society in different ways.
The symposium therefore presents an opportunity to examine how youth participation can move beyond rhetoric and become a practical force for national development.
With the sub-theme captured in the event's message — “Engaged Youth | Stronger Communities | A Greater Nation” — the conversation is positioned around the connection between active youth participation and sustainable community development.
Distinguished Voices to Lead the Conversation
      The symposium will feature a keynote address by Binta Abubakar Mora, a seasoned professional journalist and alumna of Federal Government College, Kaduna. She is also a former Commissioner for Environment in Kwara State, former Chairperson of NAWOJ Kwara State Chapter, Vice Chairman of the NUJ Kwara State Council, and currently General Manager of FRCN Harmony FM.
Joining the conversation as a panellist is Abdullateef Olanrewaju Ahmed, an Ilorin-based journalist and writer, News Editor of The Herald Newspapers and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
       Another panellist is Oyinlola Bolajoko Sonekan, a young entrepreneur and fashion business owner with over a decade of experience. Her entrepreneurial journey, exposure across Nigeria and beyond, and involvement in community-oriented initiatives bring a practical perspective to the discussion.
         The session will be moderated by Rasheedat Oladotun-Iliyas, an award-winning journalist and Peace Scholar, alumna of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She is also a host and has been involved in youth and community initiatives.
       A Conversation for Young Nigerians
The importance of such a gathering lies not simply in having distinguished speakers in one room, but in creating an environment where ideas can be exchanged and translated into action.
How can young people contribute to their communities?
What role should youth play in leadership and governance?
How can entrepreneurship, journalism, creativity and innovation become tools for nation building?
And perhaps most importantly, what can young Nigerians begin doing today rather than waiting for tomorrow?
These are the kinds of questions that make youth development a national conversation rather than a seasonal slogan.

The future of Nigeria is being discussed and the youth deserve a seat at the table.
📅 Date: 1 October 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM
📍 Venue: NUJ Press Centre, Opposite St. Anthony School, Offa Road, Ilorin, Kwara State
🎙️ Theme: The Role of Youth in Nation Building
Our Youth. Our Future. Our Nation. 

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