The national president of NYO Amb.Dr Alamboye Duke
The Nigerian Youth Organization National Leadership Retreat, themed “Inside of Gold: The Good in Our Country,” served as a platform for engaging discussions on Nigeria’s future. Amb. Dr. Alamoye Duke, the organization’s president, in his interview with the media, emphasized the organization’s belief in Nigeria’s potential to rise above its challenges. Despite widespread skepticism about the country’s economy, he expressed confidence in the reforms and policies that, if effectively implemented, could transform Nigeria.
thetochlightafrica.com reporting
Dr. Duke highlighted the importance of reforms, drawing parallels with developed nations that achieved their status through rigorous and sometimes painful transformations. He acknowledged that while reforms might bring short-term difficulties, they pave the way for sustainable growth. The Nigerian Youth Organization remains aligned with policies that prioritize the well-being of Nigerians and pledged to support reforms that foster national development while opposing any that work against the interests of the people.
One of the key issues addressed during the retreat was the need for effective taxation reforms. Dr. Duke pointed out that many businesses, including multinationals operating in Nigeria, evade taxes, draining the nation’s resources. The proposed reforms aim to ensure that such corporations pay their fair share, thereby boosting the nation’s revenue. He criticized the current practice where Nigeria relies on loans from countries benefitting from its resources, calling for a reversal of this trend.
Dr. Duke also emphasized the importance of state-level productivity, urging state governors to shift from dependency on federal allocations to generating revenue through investments in agriculture, education, manufacturing, and other sectors. He criticized the lack of innovation among some governors, suggesting that states could emulate economically successful ones like Rivers and Lagos by diversifying their economies and contributing significantly to the national GDP.
Acknowledging the concerns about the impact of the reforms on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Dr. Duke recommended that the government provide grants and other palliatives to cushion the effects. He noted that while the reforms might initially burden smaller businesses, they are necessary for long-term economic stability. The plan to implement these changes fully by 2030 provides time for gradual adjustments and expansion of economic opportunities.
In conclusion, Dr. Duke reiterated the organization’s unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential. He called on both the government and citizens to endure the present challenges, remain resilient, and work collectively towards a brighter future. The retreat underscored the role of youth leaders in driving positive change and shaping the nation’s governance, fostering hope for a better Nigeria built on collective effort and strategic reforms.
