President Bola Tinubu has praised Nigerian youths for their remarkable creativity, energy, and innovation, emphasizing their vital role in leading the nation toward prosperity and global recognition. In a message celebrating International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12, the President highlighted the critical contributions of young Nigerians in driving digital adoption, setting global trends, and fostering innovation both within the country and beyond.
The theme for this year’s International Youth Day, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” resonates strongly with the President’s vision for Nigeria’s future. Tinubu acknowledged that within the nation’s youth lies the spirit and potential to transform Nigeria into a digital powerhouse, capable of achieving global acclaim. He noted that the creative zeal of Nigerian youths is not only reshaping the nation but is also contributing significantly to making the world a more prosperous and advanced place.
The President commended the strides made by young Nigerians in various fields, particularly in the development of billion-dollar technologies and innovations that have the potential to change the world. He highlighted the contributions of those working in agro-technology, where many young Nigerians are creating legitimate income streams while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Their efforts, he said, are paving the way for a more prosperous future, not just for Nigeria but for the global community.
In his message, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to harnessing the talents and creativity of Nigerian youths. He pointed to the relaunch of the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) under the Federal Ministry of Youth Development as a key initiative aimed at empowering the nation’s young people. The NYIF, a N110 billion fund, is dedicated to supporting youth in priority sectors that drive sustainable economic growth and development.
The President also highlighted several other empowerment programs designed to support the digital and creative industries. These include the Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDiCE) program, the 3Million Technical Talents Scheme, the Skill-Up Artisans Program (SUPA), and the National Youth Talent Export Program (NATEP). Tinubu emphasized that these initiatives are designed to equip Nigerian youth with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the global economy.
Tinubu expressed confidence that these programs would empower the nation’s youth and create millions of IT and technical jobs, making them globally competitive. He reassured Nigerians that his administration is committed to making their dreams a reality by fostering a sustainably expanding and inclusive economy.
