The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has called on young Nigerians to actively engage in governance and support ongoing economic reforms, describing them as essential to securing the nation’s future.
Aniagwu made the call on Tuesday while delivering a keynote address at the inauguration of the Delta State Executive of the City Boy Movement held at the Dome Events Centre, Asaba.
He said the gathering of youths under the movement was historic, noting that they were not only the hope of tomorrow but active participants in shaping present-day Nigeria.
Drawing a comparison between Nigeria’s economic condition before the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the current realities, Aniagwu said the country had previously operated a fragile and unsustainable system that risked collapse if left unchecked.
According to him, bold reforms introduced by the President since 2023 have begun to yield measurable results, including improved foreign reserves and declining inflation rates.
“Before May 2023, our economy was largely fragile and held together in a way that only made it appear functional. Today, due to deliberate reforms, Nigeria’s foreign reserves have grown significantly, while inflation has shown a downward trend,” he said.
The commissioner noted that beyond macroeconomic indicators, government policies were gradually impacting citizens through improved access to student support schemes, agricultural funding, and job creation initiatives.
He also highlighted progress in the energy sector, pointing to the operationalisation of the Dangote Refinery as a major step toward reducing dependence on fuel importation and strengthening Nigeria’s energy security.
Aniagwu further explained that recent tax reforms signed into law by the President in 2025 had simplified the tax system and provided relief for low-income earners and small businesses.
He disclosed that individuals earning up to ₦800,000 annually are now exempt from income tax, while small businesses with turnover below ₦50 million enjoy multiple tax exemptions, adding that companies employing more workers benefit from tax incentives.
“These reforms are designed to stimulate economic growth, encourage enterprise, and create opportunities for young people,” he said.
Speaking on developments in Delta State, Aniagwu said the state government had leveraged improved federal allocations to drive massive infrastructure development, including roads and bridges across key locations in Effurun, PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, Enerhen Junction, Otovwodo Junction and Uromi Junction in Agbor.
He cited ongoing works around major corridors in Asaba and the economic impact of the Second Niger Bridge, which he said is opening up new investment opportunities and boosting property values.
The commissioner recalled that in the past, states struggled to meet obligations such as salaries and pensions, leading to frequent industrial actions, but noted that the situation had improved significantly due to enhanced fiscal capacity.
While acknowledging that the reforms may have caused temporary hardship, Aniagwu insisted they were necessary for long-term national stability and prosperity.
He urged members of the City Boy Movement to deepen their understanding of government policies, participate in informed debates, and help bridge the gap between governance and public perception.
“You are not just leaders of tomorrow; you are participants in today’s Nigeria. Engage, contribute, and help shape the future of our country,” he said.
The event attracted youths and political stakeholders from across the state and country, marking the formal inauguration of the movement’s leadership in Delta.