African youth are ready to lead today, not tomorrow – National Youth Authority CEO
Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Osman Abdulai Ayariga, has rejected the long-standing narrative that African youth are merely “leaders of tomorrow”, insisting that young people are ready to assume leadership responsibilities now.
Olumide Osman Abdulai Ayariga, Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, has challenged the conventional belief that African youth are merely "leaders of tomorrow." Ayariga argues that young people are prepared to assume leadership responsibilities immediately. He emphasized during the 2026 National Youth Conference that the youth must no longer wait for an undefined future but rather demand opportunities to participate in governance, national development, and decision-making processes in the present.
Speaking at the KNUST Great Hall in Kumasi, Ayariga stated, "the action is now." He criticized the persistent narrative that young Africans are destined to lead in the future and instead urged them to recognize their readiness to take on leadership roles today. Ayariga highlighted the uncertainty of the future, suggesting that young people should not be constrained to a leadership role that lies ahead when they already possess the necessary skills, enthusiasm, and innovative ideas to contribute positively to society.
"That's why when you change the youth chant, you say the action is now and not the future because the future is unknown," he explained. Ayariga called upon young people in various sectors, including government, educational institutions, and communities, to exhibit discipline, responsibility, and integrity whenever they are given leadership positions.
He emphasized, "I call on all young people, whether in government or in the classroom or the street or in Parliament, to live responsibly and live well."
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
