“Youth At The Heart Of Our Agenda” — Tinubu Unveils Vision In Meeting With Prince Edward

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration’s wide-ranging economic reforms are designed to secure the future of Nigerian youths by equipping them with essential skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. He made the remark during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja, where the Duke briefed him on ongoing programmes of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation in Lagos.

According to Ireporter Online, the President emphasised that young people remain central to Nigeria’s development agenda and are at the core of the nation’s transformation efforts. He noted that issues concerning youth empowerment would also feature prominently during Nigeria’s engagement at the upcoming G-20 meeting, underscoring the need to boost the economy to secure a prosperous future for the younger generation.

Tinubu highlighted key reforms—such as improved education financing, expansion of digital infrastructure and targeted skills development—as strategic interventions aimed at preparing young Nigerians to compete effectively on the global stage. He cited the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NEFUND) as a major step toward ensuring no qualified student is forced to abandon tertiary education due to financial hardship. He added that nationwide infrastructural upgrades, including the deployment of fibre-optic cables, would enhance digital inclusion and accelerate youth integration into the technology-driven economy.

The President also stated that reforms across various sectors were introduced to enhance institutional synergy and sustain long-term economic growth. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening national security and commended humanitarian groups supporting victims of terrorism and displacement.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, explained that Nigeria’s predominantly youthful population, with a median age of 17, strongly influences the direction of government reforms, especially those centred on job creation and skills acquisition.

Prince Edward applauded the administration’s reform efforts, saying they have continued to attract positive attention globally. He noted that the Lagos award ceremony would honour 320 outstanding young Nigerians for their resilience, dedication and pursuit of personal development. The Duke also commended Edun for his key contributions to the planning of the event and for consistently promoting youth involvement in Nigeria’s reform process.

Prince Edward was accompanied by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; his Private Secretary, Alex Potts; Secretary-General of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, Martin Houghton-Brown; and International Trustee for Africa, Muhoho Kenyatta. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global non-formal education initiative that equips young people with valuable skills, discipline and a strong sense of service through schools, youth groups and community organisations.