Tinubu Unveils Nigerian Youth Academy to Provide Global Skills for Young People
Tinubu Unveils Nigerian Youth Academy to Provide Global Skills for Young People
On Monday, President Bola Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to equipping Nigerian youth with essential skills for effective global competition. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the nation’s children feel secure about their future in an ever-evolving world.
During the official launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) at the State House in Abuja, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stated that Nigeria, with a median age of 17, boasts one of the youngest populations globally. He highlighted the need for national adaptation as Nigeria aims to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2050, with a majority of its citizens under the age of 21.
NiYA will concentrate on three primary areas: education and skills development, economic empowerment, and leadership alongside civic engagement. “To compete on the global stage, we will train our youth in digital literacy, technical skills, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries,” the President declared. He also noted that initiatives such as the Youth Investment Fund and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters will offer financial support, mentorship, and resources to young entrepreneurs. Additionally, the establishment of a National Youth Development Bank will facilitate access to capital for turning innovative ideas into successful businesses.
“Many Nigerian youths aspire to secure good jobs and improve their quality of life,” he added.
Minister of Youth, Olawande, emphasized that NiYA aims to address the skill gap in the job market and empower youths with the necessary competencies for employment. “This initiative is designed for all Nigerian youth, embodying Mr. President’s determination to help them forge better futures and create opportunities for their families,” he stated. He encouraged young Nigerians to seize this opportunity to learn new skills and take charge of their futures.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, congratulated six NiYA beneficiaries—representing the nation’s six geopolitical zones—who received startup grants of N1 million each to launch their programs and support their pathways to becoming self-employed.
Edun described NiYA as a significant and ambitious step toward fulfilling Tinubu’s promise of empowering young Nigerians. He acknowledged that NiYA addresses the aspirations of over sixty million youths aged 18 to 35, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, who are eager for knowledge, skills, and opportunities.
“Skills, not just certificates, are the real currency of today’s digital economy, making NiYA essential. It is more than just a learning platform; it serves as a launchpad for a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs, creators, professionals, and founders, allowing them to connect globally from the comfort of their homes,” he concluded.
