President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration’s sweeping economic and institutional reforms are deliberately designed to equip Nigerian youths with globally competitive skills and lift millions out of poverty through expanded educational opportunities.
The President made the remarks on Monday while receiving the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja, Hobnob News reports.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, discussions also touched on the forthcoming Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award ceremonies scheduled to hold in Lagos.
Youth-Centred Policies to Take Center Stage at G-20
Tinubu disclosed that youth development would be a top priority at the upcoming G-20 meetings, noting that Nigeria’s young population remains central to his administration’s reforms.
“We will be participating in the G-20 this week. The central issue is our youth. We need to strengthen the economy for our young people,” he said.
He emphasized that the reforms incorporate global best practices in skills training, job creation, and innovation, adding that Nigeria’s demographic strength must be leveraged for future growth.
Education Loan Scheme at the Heart of Poverty Reduction
Highlighting the recently launched student loan initiative, Tinubu said the government is determined to ensure that no Nigerian child is denied access to higher education due to financial constraints.
“We have a special education loan fund that ensures no one is left behind. Students who gain admission will stay in school and complete their education. Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” he stated.
The President also mentioned the expansion of digital infrastructure — including the deployment of fibre optics — and ongoing security efforts as integral to building an enabling environment for young Nigerians.
Duke of Edinburgh Commends Nigeria’s Reforms
Speaking at the meeting, Prince Edward applauded the administration’s policy direction, noting the positive international reception Nigeria’s reforms have attracted.
He disclosed that 320 Nigerian youths will be honoured at the Lagos Award events for their achievements in skills development, leadership, and community service.
“We have seen young Nigerians pursuing their passions and contributing meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Prince Edward also praised the coordinating role of the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, describing him as “a brilliant trustee and a champion of young people.”
Nigeria’s Youthful Demographics Shaping Policy
Edun noted that Nigeria’s median age of 17 significantly influences government decisions, emphasizing that reforms are structured to broaden opportunities for youth engagement, skills acquisition, and economic participation.
Dignitaries Present
Others at the meeting included British High Commissioner Sir Richard Montgomery; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; Secretary-General of the Award, Martin Houghton-Brown; and Africa Region Chairman and International Trustee, Muhoho Kenyatta.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, implemented through schools, youth organisations, and community groups worldwide, aims to build resilience, leadership, and civic responsibility among young people.
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