Lagos Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has urged youths to embrace disciplined action and preparedness to achieve meaningful impact.

He spoke at the ‘Turning Point 7.0’ youth conference, themed ‘Emerge 2026’, held at the University of Lagos on Saturday.

Mr Hamzat, represented by the commissioner for youth, Mobolaji Ogunlende, said emergence requires transforming ideas into practical, ethical and knowledge-driven plans.

“True leadership demands integrity, strong values and confidence built on knowledge,” he said, urging youths to align passion with purpose and pursue innovation.

He encouraged continuous learning beyond formal education, stressing resilience in the face of failure and the need to convert innovation into entrepreneurship.

“You need sound education, understand society and apply common sense while committing to discipline, growth and innovation for meaningful impact,” he added.

The convener, Olusegun Odufuwa, said the forum united youths to learn, connect and grow despite uncertainty and challenges.

“The idea is to bring youths together to learn, connect and grow, reminding them they can rise, stay motivated and achieve their goals,” he said.

Nonye Ayeni of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) described youths as drivers of non-oil export growth.

She urged them to become entrepreneurs and exporters, leveraging agriculture, creative industries and global markets for sustainable economic transformation.

“We encourage young Nigerians to embrace NEPC programmes, build capacity, access markets and emerge as global ambassadors,” Ayeni said.

Entrepreneur Kelechi Uchegbulem stressed consistent daily actions and clarity of purpose as keys to long-term success.

“Your emergence is not accidental; it is the product of consistent actions and deliberate decisions you make every day,” he said.

The chief executive of RED for Africa, Ayodeji Razaq, urged bold self-redefinition and strategic positioning over reliance on talent.

He warned that transformation demands resilience, discipline and a willingness to leave comfort zones in pursuit of future relevance.

Participants praised the event, with Confidence Chukwurah describing it as impactful and inspiring for young leaders.

Another participant, Adegbe Mercy, said the conference offered exposure, connections and alternative career pathways through skills development.

No fewer than 3,000 youths from institutions including UNILAG and Yaba College of Technology attended the conference, organisers said. 

(NAN)