Tinubu Urges Nigerian Youths to Dream Big, Embrace Innovation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian youths to pursue bold ideas, think globally, and embrace innovation as a pathway to national growth.

The president made the remarks during the unveiling of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) Platform and Grant Award Ceremony held in Abuja.

Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Tinubu described young Nigerians as “the engine of the nation’s future,” urging them to channel their creativity and digital skills into ventures that can compete on the world stage.

He encouraged them to “build boldly, innovate courageously, and scale fearlessly,” adding that Nigeria’s progress depends heavily on the ambition and resilience of its youth.

The event, themed “One Youth, Two Skills,” highlighted the government’s plan to support 300 beneficiaries—200 from the formal sector and 100 from the informal sector—with grants to grow or launch their businesses.

The initiative forms part of the administration’s broader youth-focused agenda, designed to promote entrepreneurship, expand digital skills, and provide financial support to young innovators.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reducing barriers faced by young entrepreneurs.

He noted that ongoing reforms—such as access to enterprise financing, relaxed regulatory pressures for small businesses, and incentives for digital and creative enterprises—are intended to empower youths to turn ideas into sustainable ventures.

He also emphasized that Nigerian youths possess the talent and digital competence necessary to compete globally. With platforms like NiYA Gigs, youth-led businesses are expected to gain easier entry into global service markets, further positioning Nigeria as a hub for digital talent in Africa.

The president’s message underscores the government’s push toward a new economic direction—one that prioritizes innovation, creativity, and skill development as key tools for national advancement.