Tinubu to Duke of Edinburgh: Our Reforms Are Designed to Secure Opportunities for Nigerian Youths

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration’s broad economic and institutional reforms are aimed at creating a more secure and prosperous future for Nigerian youths by equipping them with globally competitive skills.

Speaking on Monday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, the President said young Nigerians remain central to his economic agenda, adding that their active participation in ongoing reforms will help drive the nation toward sustainable prosperity.

Prince Edward, who chairs the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, was in Nigeria to brief the President on the upcoming international award ceremony scheduled for Lagos.

“We will be participating in the G-20 this week. It is the third time Africa is hosting the G-20, and the core focus is our youth. Strengthening the economy for our young people is essential,” Tinubu said.

He explained that the ongoing reforms are driven by a commitment to growth and national prosperity, with particular emphasis on skills development to match Nigeria’s youthful population. The President also highlighted the recently established student loan fund, designed to ensure no student drops out due to financial hardship.

“Our goal is to use education as a tool to reduce poverty,” he added, noting that the reforms cut across various sectors, encourage cooperation among stakeholders, and support long-term development.

Tinubu also pointed to ongoing fibre optic rollout and infrastructure projects as key initiatives to boost digital access and enhance youth inclusion. On security, he said the government is recording measurable improvements and thanked humanitarian organisations supporting victims of terrorism.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, noted that Nigeria’s median age of 17 underscores the need for reforms that expand opportunities for skills development and economic participation.

Prince Edward praised the President for reforms that he said are receiving global commendations. He announced that 320 Nigerian youths will be honoured at the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award events in Lagos, supported by the Lagos State Government. He also commended Edun for his consistent advocacy for youth development.

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

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global non-formal education framework that helps young people develop life skills, resilience, and a commitment to service, implemented through schools, youth groups, and community organisations worldwide.