The Kwara Social Democratic Party (SDP) gubernatorial candidate, Hakeem Lawal, has applauded the youth on the occasion of International Youth Day in a signed statement released by his media team.

“Every 12th day of August is designated as the International Youth Day by the United Nations (UN); it is a day set aside to re-echo voices against all forms of injustice or discrimination against young people around the world”, the statement reads.

“The theme of this year’s Youth Day, which focuses on intergenerational solidarity for a better world restates the possibility of young people to tap the experiences of the old and blend with the budding innovation, creativity, and resilience of young people, to make the world a better place for us all to live in, socially, politically and economically.”

“The intergenerational synergy is more important at this critical moment of our National existence, when Nigerian youth and all cadre of our social strata are in economic shackles, faced with lots of challenges, ranging from unemployment, underemployment, unfavorable government policies, abuse of human rights, amongst others.”

“The youths are also at the frontline of the receiving end of other challenges bewildering the Nation, such as insecurity and corruption. We are now at a point where we can’t afford to play with the survival and well-being of not only the Nigerian youth but the entire populace.”

“We must therefore leverage on the full potential of all generations, most especially the young people who possess the energy and zeal to drive the change we need for a sustainable country.”

“It is in this spirit that I call on the older generation to give the younger generation a chance to thrive and prosper, and most importantly, mentor and support them to take up leadership positions.”

“My generation and those younger than mine should also keep in mind that power isn’t served on a platter of gold, we have to adequately prepare ourselves for the task ahead, and compete when necessary.”

“I use this medium to salute the ever-resilient and industrious Nigerian youth, the spirit of Tobi Amusan lives in us all, we have to awaken that spirit, and thrive even in the worst possible conditions.”

“I urge you all never to take to crime to vent our anger at the system, but we should do so through a ballot revolution. Luckily, 2023 presents us a chance to change the status quo and elect competent and empathetic leaders.”

“Our permanent voter’s card (PVC) is our weapon, let’s use it well!”, the statement concluded.