A new civic-driven initiative designed to galvanize young Nigerians toward active participation in governance and national development has been inaugurated in Asaba, Delta State.
The platform, known as Soft Nigeria, was formally unveiled on February 26, 2026, by philanthropist and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Oritsegbegbemi Maurice Ojoede.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Ojoede, who is the Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Political Affairs, described the initiative as a people-oriented movement anchored on patriotism, empathy and shared responsibility.
According to him, Soft Nigeria is conceived as a vehicle for repositioning Nigerian youths from passive onlookers to proactive contributors in shaping national policies and driving sustainable development.
“Soft Nigeria goes beyond being a mere platform; it is a movement committed to nurturing a generation of young Nigerians who see themselves as stakeholders and co-builders of the nation,” he stated.
Dr. Ojoede explained that the initiative aims to promote a united and forward-looking Nigeria where development is assessed not only by physical infrastructure but also by investment in human capital and inclusive growth.
He noted that the objectives of the movement are in sync with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, economic participation and civic engagement.
The APC chieftain further disclosed that the platform would provide mentorship programmes, civic education, leadership training and access to opportunities tailored to equip young Nigerians with the skills required to succeed in an evolving economy.
Reaffirming his commitment to the APC-led administration, Ojoede emphasized that Soft Nigeria would serve as a bridge between grassroots communities and federal development initiatives, helping to simplify reforms and foster informed participation among citizens.
He called on youths across Delta State and the country at large to embrace the initiative as a forum for dialogue, collaboration and constructive nation-building.
The unveiling ceremony drew community leaders, youth advocates and political stakeholders, many of whom described the initiative as timely amid increasing demands for greater youth inclusion in governance.
Organizers revealed that the movement would, in the coming months, embark on town hall engagements, policy conversations and youth-focused forums across various states to deepen civic awareness and strengthen collaboration between government institutions and young citizens.
The Asaba launch signals the commencement of what promoters describe as a nationwide campaign to transform youth engagement into a structured, solution-oriented partnership for Nigeria’s progress.
