Future of Nigerian Youths Lies at Home, Not Abroad – AfDB President Adesina

Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), made it clear that the future of Nigerian youths isn’t about packing their bags for Europe, America, or China. Instead, he says it’s tied to the opportunities and growth within Nigeria itself.

At a public lecture, Adesina called for serious action to develop the talents, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit of young Nigerians—through solid, long-term government policies.

“We must become a global Nigeria, brimming with talents, skills, and entrepreneurship capacities that are powered by clear and consistent and sustainable government policies to become globally competitive and to retain our young talents,” he said.

Adesina stressed that Nigeria holds the key to its own job creation and fair growth. He warned that the continent needs to focus on building sustainable opportunities for its youth or risk losing them to dreams abroad.

“The future of youths in Nigeria lies in the country’s growth,” he added.

In a bid to back his words with action, Adesina shared some exciting news.

“I am pleased to share that just three days ago, the AfDB’s board of directors approved $100 million for the establishment of the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank in Nigeria,” he announced to an audience filled with notable figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo, governors, ministers, and other dignitaries.

According to Adesina, this new bank will do more than just lend money. It’s designed to empower young entrepreneurs by providing technical support, business incubation, and investments in both equity and quasi-equity.

He didn’t mince words when it came to Nigeria’s challenges, either. Adesina pointed to the grim reality many Nigerians face daily.

“In 2022, it was estimated that 63% of Nigerians—over 133 million people—live in multi-dimensional poverty,” he said, referencing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The AfDB president also drew attention to the lack of access to modern energy sources.

“More than half of the population relies on charcoal and wood for cooking instead of clean energy,” he remarked.

He didn’t stop there, either. “Significant deprivations are evident in areas such as sanitation, healthcare, food security, and housing,” he added with concern.

Mr. Adesina noted, this new investment isn’t just about money—it’s a chance to turn the tide. He described it as “a new day for Nigeria,” signaling hope for the future…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>