President Bola Tinubu has called on the Nigerian youth to pursue their ambitions with confidence, saying his administration is committed to supporting innovation, digital skills, and youth-driven enterprises.
Speaking in Abuja at the launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) Platform and a grant award ceremony, Mr Tinubu represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila said the government’s development agenda places young Nigerians at its centre.
The initiative, themed “One Youth, Two Skills,” will support 300 beneficiaries, including 200 from the formal sector and 100 from the informal sector. The programme provides start-up grants and access to training intended to help young people compete in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said youth empowerment was not just a policy objective but a personal commitment.
“You are the generation that will continue the task of building this nation,” he told attendees. “Build boldly, innovate courageously, scale fearlessly. Your creativity and energy are vital to the growth and development of this country.”
He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at removing barriers for small businesses, improving access to credit, and expanding opportunities in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, agriculture, creative industries, and green energy.
Mr Tinubu also emphasised that the newly unveiled NIYA GIGS platform would connect young Nigerians to paid work both at home and abroad by linking skills to markets and ideas to funding.
“The grant you receive today is not a prize,” he said. “It is a vote of confidence from your nation.”
Youth Development Minister Ayodele Olawande described the launch as a historic step toward supporting both formal and informal youth enterprises. He said 200 youth-led start-ups would each receive ₦1 million in funding, while another 100 beneficiaries in the informal sector would receive ₦500,000 to support small businesses.
He added that the platform would help Nigerian youths compete globally and generate sustainable income.
Finance Minister Wale Edun, delivering a goodwill message, said the initiative demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to placing young people at the heart of national development.
The event was attended by members of the Federal Executive Council and senior government officials.
