Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Youth Initiatives, Monitoring, and Delivery, Titilope Gbadamosi, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to youth development and his visionary leadership.
Speaking on the first anniversary of Tinubu’s administration, she outlined what she described as the comprehensive strategy implemented to secure the nation’s prosperity through youth empowerment.
Gbadamosi emphasised the importance of youth in Nigeria’s future, stating, “The future of Nigeria hinges on our youth, and President Tinubu’s administration has recognised this by implementing a comprehensive strategy to ensure our nation’s prosperity through youth development.”
According to her, President Tinubu’s agenda has focused largely on youth inclusion in governance, technological empowerment, diversifying the economy, stimulating entrepreneurship, and skills development.
“These initiatives are critical for fostering a more democratic, innovative, and prosperous Nigeria.”
Speaking further, she pointed out one of the administration’s significant steps as the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) resolution mandating a 30 per cent inclusion of young people in government.
“This policy ensures that the voices of the younger generation are not only heard but also represented at all levels of decision-making,” Gbadamosi explained.
“By involving youth in governance, the Tinubu administration aims to harness their innovative ideas and energy to drive national development.”
She noted that In the digital age, technology is the cornerstone of economic growth and societal development.
Recognising this, President Tinubu launched the “3 Million Tech Talents” (3MTT) initiative through the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.
Gbadamosi elaborated, “This ambitious programme aims to train and empower three million young Nigerians in various technological fields, including coding, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
“By equipping young people with these skills, the administration is preparing them to compete in the global digital economy, thereby reducing unemployment and fostering innovation.”
Entrepreneurship is another critical component of President Tinubu’s youth development strategy, highlighted by Gbadamosi, steering that through agencies like the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Bank of Industry (BOI), young entrepreneurs receive the necessary support to start and grow their businesses.
“These agencies not only offer financial support but also provide training and mentorship programmes such as SMEDAN’s National Skills Business Development Initiative (NSDBI),” Gbadamosi noted.
“These initiatives help young Nigerians turn their business ideas into reality, stimulating economic growth and creating job opportunities.”
Skill development is crucial for economic empowerment and sustainable development. The Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) plays a pivotal role in this effort by offering multiple skills training to young people.
“NiYA, along with programmes like the Industrial Training Fund’s (ITF) Skill Up Artisans and the National Automotive Design and Development Council’s (NADDC) mechatronics training, enhances the employability and productivity of Nigerian youth,” Gbadamosi said. “These initiatives foster a skilled and competent workforce.”
By combining initiatives such as 3MTT, NiYA, and ITF’s Skill Up Artisans programme, the administration addresses the root causes of youth unemployment. “These programmes not only provide education and skills but also ensure continuous learning and adaptation to the evolving job market,” Gbadamosi explained. “This comprehensive approach ensures that young Nigerians are not just job seekers but job creators, capable of contributing significantly to the economy.”
The emphasis on technology and digital skills through the 3MTT initiative is part of a broader strategy to build a robust digital economy.
“President Tinubu’s administration is leading the front by nurturing tech talents, aiming to position Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation in Africa,” Gbadamosi stated.
“Innovation and creativity are essential for national development, and Tinubu’s policies are designed to foster these qualities among young Nigerians.”
The inclusion of young people in governance and economic activities ensures that growth is inclusive and benefits all segments of society.
“By providing opportunities for youth to participate in decision-making and economic ventures, the administration is working towards a more equitable and prosperous society,” Gbadamosi noted. “This inclusive approach is vital for social stability and national unity.”
“By investing in the younger generation, the administration is laying a strong foundation for a prosperous and stable future,” Gbadamosi concluded.
“These initiatives not only address current challenges but also prepare the nation to seize future opportunities, crafting a roadmap for sustainable development and ensuring that Nigeria remains on a path of growth for years to come.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
