President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping Nigerian youths with essential skills to compete effectively on the global stage.
Speaking at the launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the initiative as a strategic response to unemployment, poverty, and other barriers to national progress.
Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria, with a median age of 17 years, is one of the youngest populations globally, and by 2050, it is projected to be the third-largest country in the world, with a majority of its citizens under 21.
NiYA, according to the President, will focus on three key areas: education and skills development, economic empowerment, and leadership and civic engagement.
“Through world-class training in digital literacy, technical skills, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries, we will ensure that our youth are equipped to compete on the global stage,” he said.
President Tinubu highlighted several initiatives that will support NiYA, including the Youth Investment Fund, the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters, and the planned National Youth Development Bank, which will provide financial support and mentorship to young entrepreneurs.
“The Nigerian Youth Academy is our commitment to changing the narrative. It will train and empower millions of young Nigerians, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to compete with the rest of the world,” he added.
The President acknowledged the challenges of Nigeria’s low Human Capital Index ranking, youth unemployment, and learning poverty, noting that these factors hinder national development.
Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, explained that NiYA is designed to provide marketable skills that will bridge the gap in the job market.
“The President promised Nigerian youths a platform where they can achieve their dreams. NiYA represents his determination to empower every Nigerian youth, helping them build a better future and create opportunities for themselves and their families,” Olawande said.
He urged young Nigerians to take advantage of the initiative, stressing that it offers them a pathway to financial independence and career development.
At the event, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, congratulated the first beneficiaries of NiYA, who received ₦1 million each as a startup package.
“NiYA speaks directly to the aspirations of over sixty million Nigerian youths from ages 18 to 35. In today’s digital economy, skills—not just certificates—are the real currency, and that is why NiYA is so important,” Edun said.
He described the initiative as a bold step toward fulfilling President Tinubu’s vision of empowering young Nigerians with the tools to succeed globally.
