Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has called on young women to place strong emphasis on education, vocational training, and skills acquisition, saying these remain key drivers of leadership, economic independence, and meaningful contribution to national development.

Saraki made the appeal on Saturday in Ilorin during a Young Women Symposium organised by Saraki Young Women in Politics and coordinated by Omotosho Peace.

The event brought together participants aged between 18 and 25 and focused on mentorship, leadership development, empowerment, and political inclusion.

Addressing the gathering, the former Senate President urged the participants to remain focused on self-development and to take deliberate steps that would prepare them for future leadership responsibilities.

“You are the future leaders of our communities, our state and our country. The decisions you make today about education, skills acquisition and self-development will determine the opportunities available to you tomorrow.”

He stressed that education and the acquisition of relevant skills remain among the most dependable means for young people to overcome economic challenges and become productive members of society.

According to him, “Education, vocational training and active civic participation are among the strongest tools available to young people in building a successful future and contributing positively to national development,” he stated.

Saraki also encouraged increased political participation among young women, commending those who had already registered as voters and describing civic engagement as essential for sustainable development.

“I am happy that many of you are not just here by mouth but are already registered voters, ready to play your part in the democratic process,” he said.

He further reflected on initiatives undertaken during his tenure as governor of Kwara State, noting efforts to expand opportunities for young people through investments in education, healthcare, sports, aviation, and youth empowerment programmes.

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Saraki emphasised that no society can achieve lasting progress without prioritising investment in its youth population, especially young women, whom he described as key stakeholders in national development.

Commending the organisers of the symposium, he described the initiative as a timely intervention aimed at equipping young women with practical tools for success rather than mere advocacy.

“This programme is timely and impactful because it focuses on giving young women the tools, opportunities and confidence they need to succeed and become future leaders,” he added.

As part of the programme, hundreds of participants received empowerment materials and vocational tools aligned with their respective trades and interests, following a needs assessment carried out by the organisers.

Saraki assured beneficiaries that the initiative would extend beyond the symposium, noting that efforts to promote empowerment and capacity building among young women would continue as part of a broader commitment to self-reliance and leadership development.

The event also featured the distribution of vocational tools and empowerment materials aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, and greater participation of young women in societal development.