President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that his administration's comprehensive economic reforms are specifically designed to secure a prosperous future for Nigeria's young population by providing them with globally competitive skills.
Meeting with Royalty
During a significant meeting at the State House in Abuja on Monday, the Nigerian leader welcomed Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, reaffirming that young people remain central to his economic agenda. The President emphasized that youth ownership of the ongoing reforms would drive Nigeria toward a more prosperous future.
Prince Edward, who serves as Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation, visited Nigeria to brief President Tinubu about the forthcoming international award ceremony scheduled to take place in Lagos.
Education as Poverty Reduction Tool
"We will be participating in the G-20 this week. It is the third time Africa is hosting the G-20, and the central issue is our youth. We need to strengthen the economy for our young people," President Tinubu stated during the meeting.
The President detailed how the reforms prioritize growth and national prosperity while fully accounting for Nigeria's demographic reality. The government has established a special education loan fund to ensure no student is left behind, enabling those who gain university admission to complete their education without financial constraints.
"Our goal is to use education as a tool to drive down poverty," Tinubu emphasized, noting that the administration is adopting global best practices to explore opportunities across multiple skills sectors.
Comprehensive National Development
The reforms span various sectors, all aimed at promoting harmony among stakeholders and building long-term synergy to meet development targets. The President highlighted that ongoing fibre optic deployment and infrastructure projects will expand access and improve youth inclusion in national development.
On security matters, Tinubu reported measurable progress in tackling challenges and expressed appreciation to humanitarian agencies working to ease the suffering of terrorism victims.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, provided crucial context, pointing out that Nigeria's median age is 17, explaining that reforms have been intentionally crafted to create more opportunities for participation, skills acquisition, and economic growth.
International Recognition
Prince Edward commended President Tinubu for reforms that have been positively received internationally. He announced that 320 Nigerian youths will be honored in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award events in Lagos, with support from the Lagos State Government.
The royal visitor also praised Finance Minister Edun for his consistent advocacy for youth development and his "brilliant contribution" to preparations for the global event.
The Duke was accompanied by several distinguished officials including the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery, and the Foundation's International Trustee for Africa, Muhoho Kenyatta.
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award represents a global framework for non-formal education that empowers young people to build skills, resilience, and a spirit of service, implemented through schools and youth organizations worldwide.
