The Chief of Staff to the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Mohammed Funsho Abdullahi, has described Nigeria as a nation of vast opportunities whose future lies in the effective development of its youthful population.
Hon. Abdullahi made this assertion on Wednesday while delivering the keynote address at the launch of a book titled “Paradise at a Crossroads,” authored by Comrade Abdulwaheed Onikanhun.
Speaking on the theme of his address, “Renewed Hope Agenda: Unlocking Nigeria’s Future Through Youth Development,” Hon. Abdullahi affirmed that Nigeria is indeed a “paradise,” though one that continually faces challenges, particularly during transitions from one government to another. He stressed, however, that such challenges should not overshadow the country’s enormous potential.
Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Hon. Abdullahi noted that Nigeria has an estimated 130 million young people. While many see this figure as a burden, he described it as a massive opportunity waiting to be harnessed.
“Nigeria, with about 130 million young people under the age of 40, should represent 130 million opportunities for growth and innovation, not 130 million problems,” he said. “What is required of government and the people is to create an enabling environment where these opportunities are accessible, allowing young Nigerians to thrive.”
He further stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, has made deliberate efforts within its first two years in office to unlock the potential of Nigerian youths through strategic policies and programmes coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
According to him, initiatives such as the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), Youth for Youth, YouthCred, among others, are designed to empower young people, promote entrepreneurship, and discourage the growing ‘japa’ syndrome.
Hon. Abdullahi also disclosed that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme is currently undergoing significant reforms aimed at strengthening skills acquisition and preparing young Nigerians for a more competitive and technology-driven future.
“The goal is to ensure that our youths are equipped with practical skills, so they are not merely carrying certificates around in search of jobs, but are empowered to create value for themselves and others,” he added.
He urged Nigerian youths to draw inspiration from the author, Comrade Abdulwaheed Onikanhun, by embracing creativity, innovation, and value creation rather than waiting for handouts from politicians.
