Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has described Nigerian youths as the country’s greatest national asset, rather than a burden to be managed.

Obi stated this in a post on his verified X handle on Wednesday to mark International Youth Day, where he praised the courage, creativity, energy and potential of young Nigerians.

The former Anambra State governor said youths should not be viewed merely as the leaders of tomorrow, stressing that they are already among the country’s most valuable assets.

“Our youths are not a burden to be managed. They are our greatest national asset and the builders of the Nigeria we desire.”

Obi said Nigeria must create an environment where young people can fulfil their potential at home instead of being forced to seek opportunities abroad.

He called for greater investment in quality education, skills development, healthcare, technology, sports and decent employment.

Reflecting on a recent trip to Bauchi, Obi said he was reminded of the capabilities of young Nigerians after encountering two young pilots who flew him to the state.

“The two captains who flew us were young men aged 20 and 28, respectively, while the crew members were also in their 20s.”

According to him, their competence, confidence and professionalism demonstrated that age should not be a barrier to excellence when young people are given opportunities to learn, work and lead.

He noted that Nigerian youths continue to excel across sectors including football, technology, medicine, aviation, entrepreneurship, academia and the creative industries.

“What we lack is the deliberate investment and enabling environment to help that talent flourish.”

Obi reaffirmed his commitment to building a Nigeria where young people have opportunities to learn, work, create, lead and prosper, adding that their active participation could help drive national transformation.

“With the support and active participation of the youth, a new Nigeria is possible,” he said.