Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has called on young women to prioritise education, vocational training and skills acquisition as key pathways to economic independence, leadership development and active participation in nation-building.
Saraki made the call in Ilorin during a Young Women Symposium organised under the platform *Saraki Young Women in Politics*, coordinated by Omotosho Peace. The event brought together participants aged between 18 and 25, focusing on mentorship, empowerment, leadership training and political inclusion.
Addressing the participants, Saraki encouraged them to invest in personal development and prepare deliberately for future leadership responsibilities.
He stressed that decisions made early in life regarding education and skills acquisition would significantly shape future opportunities and career outcomes.
According to him, education, vocational training and civic engagement remain some of the most effective tools for overcoming economic hardship and building a productive society.
He noted that young women, in particular, must equip themselves with relevant knowledge and practical skills to remain competitive in a fast-changing world.
Saraki also commended the participants for their growing political awareness, especially their involvement in voter registration and democratic participation, describing it as an important step toward national development.
He expressed satisfaction that many of the young women were already registered voters, saying this reflected a positive level of civic responsibility.
Recalling his time as governor of Kwara State, Saraki highlighted past efforts to expand opportunities for young people through investments in education, healthcare, sports, aviation and empowerment programmes.
He said no society can achieve sustainable development without deliberately investing in its youth population, particularly women, whom he described as key drivers of social and economic progress.
The former Senate President also praised the organisers of the symposium, describing the initiative as a practical empowerment platform rather than a purely advocacy-driven programme.
He noted that providing young women with tools, skills and opportunities was essential for long-term self-reliance and leadership development.
As part of the programme, participants received vocational tools and empowerment materials based on identified needs across different trades.
Saraki assured beneficiaries that the initiative was part of a continuous effort to support youth empowerment, adding that similar programmes would be sustained to promote entrepreneurship, skills development and greater participation of young women in society.