The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya (Walin Sokoto), has described Nigerian youths as a critical force in nation-building, economic development, technological advancement and future prosperity. Available data from the National Bureau of Statistics, based on the National Baseline Youth Survey, puts the number of young people aged 18–35 in Sokoto State at approximately 1.40 million, comprising 654,410 males and 742,258 females. AdvertisementThe figures underscore the enormous human capital represented by Sokoto’s young population and the importance of creating opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. He stressed that the future of Sokoto and Nigeria cannot be built through violence, crime or extremism, but through education, enterprise, innovation, discipline and productive citizenship. Dan’iya reaffirmed his commitment to placing youth development at the centre of his administration’s agenda, with emphasis on education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, technology, sports and employment opportunities, while wishing Nigerian youths a peaceful, productive and inspiring International Youth Day.