The African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has declared youth empowerment a continental imperative, calling on governments, institutions, and the private sector to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete action for Africa's young people.
Youssouf made the remarks in an official statement published on the AU's X account on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, to mark International Youth Day. He said Africa's youth are not simply the leaders of tomorrow but active partners and leaders in the present, and that their voices and ideas must shape decisions being made today.
AU Commission Chair's Position on Youth
Youssouf noted that youth empowerment had been a stated priority from the beginning of his campaign to lead the AU Commission, and that he remains committed to turning that priority into concrete opportunities for young Africans to participate, lead, and contribute to the continent's development and integration.
He stressed that genuine empowerment requires more than recognition alone. It demands sustained investment across education, skills development, entrepreneurship, employment, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes at all levels.
Call for Broader Partnerships
Youssouf used the occasion to push for deeper collaboration across sectors, arguing that an enabling environment for youth can only be created when governments, institutions, the private sector, and young people themselves work together.
He reaffirmed his commitment to placing youth concerns at the centre of the AU's broader agenda for an inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous continent, and extended greetings to young Africans across the continent on the occasion.
AU Summit: Nigeria Secures Permanent Seat
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nigeria recorded notable diplomatic gains at the 39th Executive Council session of the African Union, securing decisions that strengthen its influence in continental finance, peace, and democratic governance.
The meeting, held under the AU framework, ended with an agreement granting Nigeria a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank.
