The Chairman of the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, has emphasized that the future of Africa rests on the values and vision being instilled in its children today. His remarks came ahead of the 2025 National Children’s Leadership Conference (NCLC), organized by the Children of Africa Leadership and Values Development Initiative (CALDEV), scheduled to hold from November 17 to 21 in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Speaking through Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, Chairman of the NCLC 2025 Planning Committee, Salam revealed that notable dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke are expected to attend the four-day event.

Themed “The Role of Children in Nation Building: Digitally Smart, Socially Responsible,” the conference aims to empower over 400 young Africans aged 13–19 with leadership skills, digital literacy, and social responsibility. Delegates will also have the opportunity to participate in a children’s parliamentary session, digital skills workshops, community problem-solving exercises, and excursions to the National Assembly.

Highlighting the event’s educational impact, Salam announced a book launch titled The Power of a Teenager: 50 Ways to Inspire Change, authored by himself, as well as the Early Achievers Awards Ceremony, which will honor exceptional young leaders and innovators. This year, four children from across Nigeria will receive the Distinguished CALDEV Africa Early Achievers Award, recognizing their creativity, leadership, and technological contributions.

Programme partners noted that NCLC not only instills leadership values but also gives children firsthand experience in governance and policymaking. Amina Abubakar, Director of Safe Africa and organizing committee member, described the conference as “the largest gathering of children in Africa,” providing a platform for participants to express themselves, develop digital and leadership skills, and grow into socially responsible citizens.

Toromade Faderera, CALDEV Programme Officer, added that this year’s edition would expand its reach with more partners and stakeholders, reflecting the growing impact and demand for children’s empowerment across the continent.

Launched in 2021, NCLC has consistently provided African children a platform to showcase their talents, take initiative, and contribute to community and continental development. Founded in 2015 by Rep. Salam, CALDEV continues to mentor and train children, advocating for strong education, leadership development, and the protection of children’s rights as critical elements for Africa’s future.