President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured that the federal government’s ongoing economic reforms are intentionally crafted to equip Nigerian youths with the skills, support, and opportunities needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive global landscape. He made this known during a meeting with Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Prince Edward, who chairs the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, visited the President to provide updates on the organisation’s youth development programmes currently underway in Lagos.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described young people as central to Nigeria’s development blueprint and integral to the country’s long-term economic transformation.
He added that Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming G-20 meeting will focus significantly on youth empowerment. According to him, reforms in education financing, digital infrastructure, and skill-building were specifically designed to position Nigerian youths for global competitiveness.
The President cited the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NEFUND) as a key intervention to prevent students from dropping out of tertiary institutions due to financial difficulty. He also highlighted nationwide infrastructure upgrades—such as the laying of fibre-optic cables—to broaden digital access and accelerate inclusion in the digital economy.
Tinubu further noted that improving national security remains a priority, commending humanitarian organisations for assisting victims of terrorism and displacement.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reiterated that Nigeria’s youthful population continues to influence the structure and goals of government reforms aimed at expanding job creation and skill acquisition.
Prince Edward praised the government’s reform agenda, noting that it has attracted positive international attention. He revealed that the forthcoming Lagos award ceremony would recognise 320 young Nigerians who have demonstrated resilience, commitment, and a passion for personal development.
The Duke was accompanied by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery, among other officials. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award provides young people worldwide with non-formal education opportunities that build character, skills, and a sense of service.
