The First Lady of Jigawa State, Hajiya Hadiza Umar A. Namadi, has called for urgent and sustained efforts to empower young Nigerians for self-reliance, describing them as the “engine of national development.”
Speaking in her keynote address at an event organized by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) in commemoration of International Youth Day, Hajiya Hadiza stressed the importance of guiding and supporting youths to harness their full potential.
The program, held on Saturday at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, brought together senior government officials, foreign diplomats, and notable business leaders to celebrate the contributions of young people to nation-building.
In her address titled “The Importance of Empowering Youth for Self-Reliance,” the First Lady outlined practical strategies aimed at transforming youthful energy and creativity into sustainable progress. She urged stakeholders to create pathways that promote independence, productivity, and dignity for Nigerian youth, noting that “a nation’s future depends on how well it invests in its young generation.”
Hajiya Hadiza was accompanied by prominent women leaders from Jigawa, including Prof. Habiba Kakudi, wife of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly; Hajiya Naj’atu Garba Hannun Giwa, wife of the Commissioner for Local Governments; Hajiya Ummi Garba MK, wife of the Commissioner for Lands and Survey; and the wives of the Chairmen of Jahun, Taura, Roni, and Sule Tankarkar Local Governments.
Together, they reaffirmed their collective commitment to championing youth empowerment initiatives, pledging continued support to ensure that young people are equipped with the tools, opportunities, and confidence to thrive in today’s challenging economy.
The event also featured discussions on youth entrepreneurship, education, and innovation as critical pillars for driving inclusive growth and reducing dependency.
