Tinubu hails youth energy and creativity as Nigeria’s key assets

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday hailed the energy and creativity of Nigerian youths as the nation’s most valuable assets, emphasizing that his administration is committed to harnessing their potential for national transformation.

He noted that the country’s future lies in the hands of its young people.

Speaking in Abuja at the Nigeria Youth Strategic Leadership Conference, organised by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the National Defence College, Tinubu—represented by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande—highlighted new government initiatives aimed at equipping youths with the skills and opportunities necessary to drive the nation’s growth.

He said, “The future of Nigeria is in the hands and minds of our young people today. The energy, the creativity and the courage of our youth are the greatest national assets we have.

However, energy without direction and potential without preparation can lead to frustration. That is why this conference is so timely and critical.

“It involves developing strategies for inclusive, equitable and sustainable leadership. It is also about building a culture of service, accountability, innovation and national capacity for the next generation.

Let me repeat that youth development is central to our transformation strategy.”

Tinubu explained that his administration had prioritised youth-focused initiatives, such as the Nigeria Academy, a national learning platform for digital and professional skills, and the Three Million Technical Talent programme, aimed at training young Nigerians in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

He also listed other initiatives, including: National Digital Literacy Drive, targeting 70% digital literacy by 2027, Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme projected to create 2.5 million jobs through enterprise training and employment matching.

“We have initiatives such as the student loan scheme, grassroots programs on climate change, food security, public health awareness, and youth fellowship programs, among others,” he added.

The President stressed that the conference is not merely a forum for discussion but a platform to lay the foundation for a new Nigerian vision led by a generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders.

Also addressing the gathering, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal encouraged young Nigerians to resist the growing “Japa” trend, emphasizing that national development depends on their active participation at home.

“Many people do not fully grasp the consequences of leaving the country. Having lived abroad myself, I understand the challenges of being away. That is why we returned, took up leadership roles, and are working to improve the country, so that everyone can contribute here. Building your nation starts with you,” Lawal said, noting that his state has implemented several youth empowerment initiatives.

Rear Admiral James Okosun, Commandant of the National Defence College, highlighted that the college’s involvement reflects its mission to prepare young people as strategic leaders. “The youth are the future. Investing in their development today is crucial for Nigeria to secure its rightful place on the global stage,” he said.