Tinubu: Reforms Target Youth Empowerment, Global Competitiveness Through Education

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration’s economic and institutional reforms are designed to equip Nigerian youths with globally competitive skills and secure their future through education-driven development.

Tinubu made this known on Monday while receiving the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, discussions also touched on the forthcoming Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award events scheduled for Lagos.

The President emphasised that youth development will take centre stage at this week’s G-20 engagements, noting that strengthening the economy for young Nigerians remains a priority.

“Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” he said, highlighting the newly launched student loan scheme as a key step toward ensuring that no Nigerian student drops out due to financial constraints.

Tinubu also referenced ongoing investments in fibre optic expansion and digital infrastructure, efforts to improve national security, and multi-sector reforms aimed at fostering long-term growth and synergy among stakeholders.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, explained that Nigeria’s median age of 17 strongly influences government policies, which are centred on broadening opportunities for skills development and youth participation.

Prince Edward commended the administration’s reforms, noting that they have attracted significant international interest. He said the upcoming Lagos Awards would honour 320 Nigerian youths for pursuing their passions, developing vital skills, and contributing to national progress. He also praised Edun’s support for youth-focused initiatives.

Other attendees included the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Award’s Secretary-General, Martin Houghton-Brown; and International Trustee and Africa Region Chair, Mr. Muhoho Kenyatta.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global non-formal education programme delivered through schools, youth groups and community organisations to build skills, resilience and civic responsibility among young people.