Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has called on older and younger generations in Nigeria to put aside their differences and work together to solve the nation’s growing challenges.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during a public lecture held to mark the 17th anniversary of Splash FM and the 85th birthday of Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande in Ibadan, Dare said both generations must stop blaming each other and instead create synergy to drive national development.

“We should stop the blame game — the young ones blaming the older ones, and the older ones blaming the young that they are not disciplined,” Dare said. “Let’s come together and create a synergy that can develop our society.”

The former minister, who served under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, noted that Nigeria’s problems — including unemployment, insecurity, and social division — cannot be solved by one generation alone. He said the collaboration of experience and innovation is essential to move the country forward.

Dare described Nigeria’s youth population as a major national asset, pointing out that more than 70 percent of the country’s citizens are under 35 years old. He said this demographic advantage will only yield results if young people are given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while learning from the wisdom of older citizens.

“The energy and creativity of the youth must combine with the experience and knowledge of the elders,” he said. “When both generations work together, there will be balance, progress, and sustainability.”

The former minister also addressed what he called the “age myth” — the notion that younger people are always the drivers of innovation while older people are resistant to change. He argued that success and creativity can come at any age, citing examples such as Colonel Harland Sanders, who founded Kentucky Fried Chicken in his 60s, and Ray Kroc, who expanded McDonald’s at age 52.

“Age does not define your game; it is the heart and hustle that determine your success,” he said.

Dare recalled the “Adopt-an-Athlete” initiative introduced during his tenure, which encouraged older, successful Nigerians to sponsor and mentor young athletes ahead of international competitions. He said the programme proved that when the two generations collaborate, both sides benefit and the nation wins.

“The youth have ideas, strength, and passion, but they need guidance and structure. The elders have wisdom and experience, but they must also be open to new ideas,” Dare added. “Our nation can only thrive when both sides see each other as partners, not rivals.”

Analysts say Dare’s comments reflect growing concern about the generational divide in Nigeria. While older citizens often criticize young people for impatience and lack of discipline, many youths accuse political leaders of hoarding power and stifling opportunities.

Experts also note that Nigeria’s economic hardship and high youth unemployment — estimated at over 33 percent by recent reports — have deepened tensions between generations. Calls for mentorship, inclusion, and dialogue are becoming more frequent across civic and political spaces.

Dare’s message, observers say, underscores the need for shared responsibility as Nigeria seeks solutions to economic and social instability. He urged policymakers, community leaders, and families to create platforms for intergenerational cooperation, mentorship, and dialogue.

“Both the old and the young have roles to play,” he said. “When we unite, Nigeria will rise.”

The event, attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and youth representatives, concluded with a call for national unity and a renewed sense of purpose among Nigerians of all ages.

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