Over 20,000 Nigerian youths gathered in Abuja for the Joshua Generation International Youth Conference 2025, a monumental event designed to inspire, equip, and mobilize the next generation of national leaders, innovators, and changemakers. With the full backing of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and major local institutions, the conference served as a rallying call for young Nigerians to step up and transform society across political, economic, and spiritual dimensions.

A Vision to Transform a Generation

Organized by the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the conference, which ran for several days at the prestigious Moshood Abiola National Stadium, brought together entrepreneurs, students, tech innovators, creatives, and public servants to explore practical strategies for building a better Nigeria.

In his opening remarks, Primate Henry Ndukuba, the head of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, emphasized that:

“Nigeria’s hope for sustainable peace and prosperity lies in a renewed, empowered youth. The Joshua Generation is not about religion alone—it’s about national revival led by bold, value-driven young people.”

Backing from the African Development Bank

The involvement of the African Development Bank added significant weight to the event. The AfDB’s Youth Empowerment Strategy—focused on jobs, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and financial access—mirrored the conference’s agenda.

According to the AfDB, Africa needs to create over 12 million jobs annually to match the continent’s youth bulge. Nigeria, with more than 70% of its population under 30, remains a key focal point of such efforts.

A representative of the Bank at the event noted:

“We’re here not just to speak—but to listen, to connect with Nigeria’s young talent, and to create platforms that translate ideas into employment and enterprise.”

Empowerment Through Action

Sessions at the Joshua Generation Conference included:

• Tech empowerment bootcamps on digital tools, fintech, and innovation

• Faith-based leadership training for ethical influence in governance

• Entrepreneurship workshops hosted by local business leaders and coaches

• Breakout discussions on climate action, political participation, and gender inclusion

Speakers included former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, entrepreneur Ibukun Awosika, and international experts from across Africa.

The Core Message: Take Charge

A recurring theme during the conference was intentional leadership—urging youths not to wait for the future but to actively shape it now.

This included calls to:

• Participate in elections and policy-making

• Launch and scale socially conscious businesses

• Advocate for good governance and transparency

• Use technology for community development

The sessions weren’t only motivational—they were strategically designed to equip participants with immediate tools and networks to take action.

Why This Matters

With Nigeria facing unemployment rates exceeding 30% (National Bureau of Statistics, 2024), youth empowerment is not just a slogan—it is a survival strategy for national stability.

The success of this conference signals a shift in the narrative: from disillusionment to youth-led transformation. It reminds stakeholders—government, private sector, and civil society—that investment in young people must be sustained, strategic, and scaled.

Final Thoughts

The Joshua Generation International Youth Conference has proven to be more than a religious gathering—it’s a blueprint for national reawakening. With over 20,000 young minds stirred and equipped, Nigeria’s future may indeed lie in the hands of a rising generation ready to build, reform, and lead.

Last Updated on May 2, 2025 by kingstar