By Warefa Pereke.
Warri, Delta State – As the Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria, SWUYN prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary and National Unemployed Youths day, Izon Times Media met with the National President of SWUYN, Comrade Preye V. Tambou, to discuss the future of the unemployed youth of Nigeria. He shares his vision for empowerment and the steps needed to lower the high rate of unemployment in Nigeria, as well as what is to be done to create more jobs.
Question: Congratulations on the 10th anniversary celebration coming up in Warri, Delta State. What does this milestone mean to you?
Comrade Tambou: Thank you so much. This anniversary represents resilience, vision, and impact. Over the past decade, we have transformed from a small advocacy platform into a national movement focused on empowering unemployed youths with skills, knowledge, and opportunities. Lest I forget, this year’s event will be held at De Elis event center, DSC express way Udu, Delta State.
Question: What inspired the formation of the Society?
Comrade Tambou: The rising unemployment crisis among youths was alarming. Many young people lacked access to opportunities despite their potential. We created the organisation to bridge that gap through empowerment, advocacy, and policy engagement.
Question: Why is “Unemployed Youths’ Day” so important for Nigeria right now?
Comrade Tambou: This day is not just for a ceremony. It is a “clarion call.” We have millions of talented young people, but they are trapped in a cycle of poverty. This day reminds the government and the world that unemployment is not just a number on a page—it is a human story of broken dreams. We want to turn the “whisper” of the unemployed youths into a “thunder” that forces real change.
Question: What achievements stand out in the last 10 years?
Comrade Preye: We have organised skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship training, job placement initiatives, and advocacy campaigns that influenced conversations around youth employment. Thousands of youths have benefited directly and indirectly.
Question: What should participants expect from the anniversary celebration?
Comrade Preye: Participants should expect learning, networking, empowerment, and inspiration. The event is designed to equip youths with practical tools while also creating dialogue with policymakers and employers.
Question: You often say empowerment is not a “handout.” What do you mean by that?
Comrade Preye: Giving someone a small amount of money or food is charity, and charity does not last. True empowerment is an investment. It means giving a young person the tools, training, and mentorship they need to stand on their own feet. We want our youth to be self-sufficient, not dependent on gifts from politicians.
Question: What specific steps should the government take to lower unemployment?
Comrade Preye: First, the Federal Government must stop sending all the resources through State Governors who often fail to deliver. They should invest directly in small businesses and local builders. Second, we need to fix our schools so that students learn skills that actually help them get jobs today, like ICT (tech), modern farming, and trade skills.
Question: What is your vision for the “first 1,000 voices” movement?
Comrade Preye: My vision is to organize. Scattered youths are just noise, but organized youths are power. We are bringing together 1,000 disciplined young leaders from every part of Nigeria—artisans, students, and techies. We will train them in how to talk to the media and how to demand their rights peacefully. When we speak with one voice, no leader can ignore us.
Question: What message do you have for a young Nigerian who has lost hope?
Comrade Preye: I want you to know that you are not a burden; you are a resource waiting to be unleashed. Do not stay silent. Join a movement like SWUYN. When we unite across different tribes and religions, we become too big to fail. Your future is not in the hands of the elite—it is in your hands if you decide to organize and act.
Question: What is your message to Nigerian youths?
Comrade Preye: Never lose hope. Invest in skills, embrace entrepreneurship, and remain proactive. Opportunities may be scarce, but preparation and resilience will position you for success.
It is clear from our talk with Comrade Tambou that the issue of unemployment needs urgent action. We hope this interview shines a light on the struggles of our youth and encourages leaders to act. Thank you, Comrade Tambou, for sharing your thoughts with Izon Times Media.
