President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that his administration is leveraging education as a central tool to reduce poverty and promote prosperity for Nigerian youth.
Tinubu made the remarks on Monday while receiving the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja. According to a statement by the Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the president highlighted that the government’s reform agenda focuses on equipping young Nigerians with globally competitive skills.
“Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” Tinubu stated during the meeting. Discussions also included preparations for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award events scheduled in Lagos.
Highlighting youth-focused policies, Tinubu said, “We will be participating in the G-20 this week. Africa is hosting for the third time, and the central issue is our youth. We need to strengthen the economy for their benefit. Our reforms target growth and prosperity, emphasizing demography and skills development, while emulating best practices to create opportunities.”
He also mentioned the recently established education loan fund, describing it as a major step toward ensuring inclusive access to higher education. “The fund guarantees that students who gain university admission can stay in school and complete their education. Education is a critical tool to reduce poverty,” he added.
During the visit, Prince Edward was accompanied by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery. Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, also attended the engagement. Photos released by the State House showed the dignitaries in discussion and standing together during the meeting.
Earlier reports noted that bilateral trade between the United Kingdom and Nigeria has reached £7.2 billion, reflecting a “vibrant, enduring, and multifaceted” economic relationship, according to Dr. Richard Montgomery.
