The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has stated that Nigeria’s greatest resource lies not in its mineral wealth but in the intellect, creativity, and drive of its youth population.
Hon. Kalu made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) 2026. The landmark event, organized by the Activate Success Foundation, stands as one of Nigeria’s premier platforms dedicated to nurturing enterprise, expanding economic opportunities, and preparing young people to lead the nation’s economic future.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Speaker emphasized that the country’s ultimate responsibility is to convert the raw talent and ambition of young Nigerians into structured opportunities capable of driving national prosperity and productivity.
Our greatest resource is not beneath our soil, but within the minds, hands, and imagination of our youths.
Deputy Speaker, Kalu
Highlighting the legislative agenda, Kalu reaffirmed the commitment of lawmakers to strengthening Nigeria’s legal and institutional frameworks to foster a thriving business ecosystem. He urged a shift in national perspective, arguing that entrepreneurship should no longer be viewed as an alternative path for a select few, but rather as a central pillar of national development and widespread economic transformation.
The Deputy Speaker lauded the Activate Success Foundation for its vision and consistency in establishing a credible engine for youth empowerment. He specifically commended the foundation’s founder, Mrs. Love Idoko-Uloko, noting her remarkable, ongoing investment in the potential of young Nigerians.
In his closing charge, Hon. Kalu issued a call to action to young people across the country, reminding them that “the future belongs to those who build, innovate, and lead,” and declaring that the time for them to begin shaping that future is now.
