Patron of the City Boy Movement, Seyi Tinubu, says the organisation has grown beyond its role as a campaign platform. According to him, it has evolved into a nationwide movement committed to national development and citizen engagement.
He spoke at the opening dinner of the City Boy Movement National Retreat held at the State House in Abuja. Participants at the event also called for stronger grassroots mobilisation, increased youth participation and sustained support for the Federal Government’s reforms.
Seyi Tinubu outlines movement’s vision
Addressing members from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Seyi Tinubu described the retreat as the beginning of a new chapter for the organisation.
He said members travelled from different parts of the country because they believed in a common vision for Nigeria and its future.
“This is more than just the opening of a retreat. It is the beginning of a movement. It is the coming together of men and women who have chosen to dedicate their time, energy and talents to the service of Nigeria and the advancement of the Renewed Hope vision.”
The City Boy Movement patron also praised members for their commitment and sacrifice.
“You have travelled from every corner of our great nation not because you were compelled to, but because you believe in a cause that is greater than yourselves. That spirit of sacrifice is what defines leadership.”
Members urged to strengthen grassroots engagement
According to Seyi Tinubu, the City Boy Movement has become a national network that promotes volunteerism, youth participation and democratic values.
However, he warned members against becoming complacent as the movement continues to expand.
“We have only scratched the surface of what we have come together to accomplish. Our greatest victory is still ahead of us. This retreat is not a celebration of yesterday; it is preparation for tomorrow.”
Furthermore, he encouraged members to engage more people in wards, local governments, markets, campuses and communities.
Rather than simply defending government policies, he urged them to reconnect Nigerians with government.
“This movement must become not simply about defending government, but about reconnecting Nigerians with government.”
Explain reforms with empathy
Speaking on President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Seyi Tinubu said the government inherited serious economic and security challenges.
According to him, the administration has introduced reforms to stabilise the economy. It has also expanded infrastructure, strengthened security, supported agriculture and improved education.
While acknowledging that many Nigerians still feel the impact of the reforms, he urged members to explain government policies with empathy and facts.
“Many of these reforms have required difficult decisions, and many Nigerians continue to feel their impact. But we are also beginning to see progress. Our engagement must therefore be responsible, factual and compassionate.”
Movement targets youth mobilisation
Meanwhile, Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Francis Shoga, said the organisation aims to mobilise 10 million youth votes for President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.
“Ten million votes will not come from slogans or social media. They will come from real people, real members, real engagement and hard work at the grassroots.”
Similarly, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud, described nation-building as a shared responsibility. She commended the movement for promoting patriotism, unity and responsible citizenship.
Also, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, urged young Nigerians to move beyond being observers and become active participants in governance.
“It is time for everyone in this country to hear the voice of the youth.”
What happens next?
The City Boy Movement said it will use the retreat to strengthen its grassroots structures and expand civic engagement nationwide. In addition, the organisation plans to encourage greater youth participation while promoting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
