Tinubu Urges Youth to Embrace Innovation as FG Launches Nigerian Youth Academy Platform
President Bola Tinubu has called on young Nigerians to pursue their aspirations with confidence and determination, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting innovation-driven initiatives across the country.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja during the official launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy Platform and the presentation of grants under a programme organised by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
The initiative, themed “One Youth, Two Skills,” targets 300 beneficiaries — 200 from the formal sector and 100 from the informal sector — aimed at strengthening youth productivity through skill acquisition and financial support.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu, represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, stressed that Nigeria’s future competitiveness depends heavily on the creativity and resilience of its young population, especially in an era shaped by technological advancement and digital solutions.
Tinubu noted that empowering young people remains a major pillar of his administration’s development blueprint. “You must build with confidence, innovate with bravery, and grow without fear,” he said, encouraging the youth to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
He also expressed delight at ongoing discussions around a potential partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that could further strengthen youth development efforts.
The President urged young Nigerians to channel their ideas and energy into initiatives capable of transforming the country.
Reiterating his long-standing commitment to youth inclusion, Tinubu said his administration is intentional about ensuring that young people remain central to Nigeria’s developmental progress. “From the onset, I decided that Nigerian youths will not stand on the sidelines of national advancement. This is not just a political stance; it is a deeply personal conviction,” he said.
Tinubu added that the nation’s history shows that pivotal progress — whether in innovation, civic leadership, or social transformation — has always been sparked by the ingenuity and courage of its youths.
He highlighted ongoing government interventions across technology, agriculture, manufacturing, the creative sector, and renewable energy, noting that these programmes are designed to provide multiple opportunities for young innovators to excel.
The Nigerian Youth Academy Platform is expected to serve as a hub for skill development, mentorship, and resource support as the government intensifies efforts to boost job creation and economic participation among the country’s youth population.
