President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Nigerian children for demonstrating confidence, initiative and a strong sense of responsibility, saying “they are the leaders of today, not tomorrow.”
The President made the remarks at the launch and public presentation of the book “The Power of a Teenager: 50 Ways to Inspire Change”, authored by Chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts and Founder of the Children of Africa Leadership and Values Development Initiative (CALDEV), Mr. Bamidele Salam.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Mr. Ibrahim Olarewaju, President Tinubu said; “the active participation of children in national conversations shows that they can no longer be overlooked.”
He said the confidence displayed by the young participants at the event reflects a new phase in Nigeria’s leadership development, adding that the country must prepare to give them space to contribute.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, described the book launch as ‘a demonstration of the potential of Nigerian children’.
He said “the initiative aligns with the administration’s agenda for youth empowerment and capacity building.”
Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, said Nigerian children remain central to the nation’s future and must be equipped with the right values early in life.
He commended Mr. Salam for providing a leadership resource that will help nurture young people into responsible adults.
Leader of the House Minority Caucus, Mr. Kingsley Chinda, also praised the initiative, saying “the lessons offered in the book would guide children as they grow and confront life’s challenges.”
Mr. Salam said “the book was inspired by gaps in the country’s value-based education system.”
He explained that CALDEV has continued to train children in leadership and community impact, noting that many participants now run radio programmes addressing local issues.
He urged State Governors to adopt and replicate the leadership-development model to strengthen youth capacity across the country.
Children from various states showcased their creativity, innovations and leadership skills during the programme.