As the world marks International Youth Day 2026, I celebrate the energy, creativity, resilience, and enormous potential of young people across Nigeria, particularly the vibrant youths of Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben Federal Constituency.
This year’s International Youth Day theme: “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” is a powerful reminder that meaningful development does not happen only through policies crafted at the highest levels of government. It is also driven by the ideas, initiatives, and everyday actions of young people within our communities.
Rt. Hon Marcus I. Onobun emphasizes that, ” Young people are not merely leaders of tomorrow. We are partners in development today. Our voices, innovations, talents, and contributions must therefore be recognised, supported, and integrated into the development process
As a representative in the National Assembly, I remain committed to supporting initiatives that expand opportunities for young people through education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, digital innovation, employment, and meaningful participation in governance.
The future we desire for Nigeria will be shaped by how effectively we empower our young population to transform our communities with relevant skills and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
On this occasion, I encourage every young Nigerian to believe in the power of their ideas, embrace innovation, acquire relevant skills, and remain committed to building a better society. As a significant segment of our population, we must move beyond conversations about the potential of our youths and create the structures, opportunities, and platforms that allow that potential to flourish”
Our dreams matter. Our voices matter. And our contributions matter!
Happy International Youth Day 2026!
Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun
Member, House of Representatives
Esan West, Esan Central & Igueben Federal Constituency