Tinubu drops major revelation on Nigeria’s Youth future in Royal meeting

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu says his administration’s economic reforms are deliberately designed to secure the future of Nigerian youths by equipping them with modern skills, strengthening institutions, and expanding opportunities across key sectors.

The President stated this on Monday when he received the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja. Prince Edward, who chairs the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, was in Nigeria to brief the President on the forthcoming award ceremony scheduled to hold in Lagos.

Tinubu said youth development remains central to his economic agenda, noting that reforms currently underway will position young Nigerians to thrive both locally and globally.

“We will be participating in the G-20 this week, and the central issue is about our youth. We need to strengthen the economy for our youths,” the President said. “The reforms are about growth and prosperity for the nation. They take into full consideration demography and skills development.”

He highlighted ongoing efforts to expand skills programmes, improve digital infrastructure through fibre-optic deployment, and strengthen institutions that support education and innovation.

Tinubu added that the government’s student education loan fund will ensure that young people who gain admission into higher institutions can complete their studies without financial barriers. “Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” he said.

The President also noted improvements in security operations and commended humanitarian organisations supporting victims of terrorism.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reaffirmed that the reforms are youth-focused, pointing out that Nigeria’s median age of 17 makes investment in skills and opportunities essential for national growth.

In his remarks, Prince Edward praised the administration’s reform efforts, describing the feedback from the international community as positive. He said the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award event in Lagos will honour 320 Nigerian youths for excellence in skills, service, and personal development.

The Duke was accompanied by the British High Commissioner, Sir Richard Montgomery; his Private Secretary, Alex Potts; Secretary-General of the Award Foundation, Martin Houghton-Brown; and Africa Region Chair, Muhoho Kenyatta.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global programme that promotes non-formal education and youth empowerment through schools, community groups, and youth organisations worldwide.