Tinubu launches youth academy to combat unemployment, poverty

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), an initiative aimed at addressing unemployment and poverty while equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for global competitiveness. Speaking at the official launch at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, President Tinubu-represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima-said Nigeria, with a median age of 17, […]

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), an initiative aimed at addressing unemployment and poverty while equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for global competitiveness.

Speaking at the official launch at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, President Tinubu-represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima-said Nigeria, with a median age of 17, has one of the youngest populations in the world.

“Our success as a nation depends on ensuring that every Nigerian child is prepared for the evolving global landscape,” Tinubu said.

He said NiYA will focus on three key areas – education and skills development, economic empowerment and leadership and civic engagement.

The president explained that NiYA is a strategic response to Nigeria’s low ranking in human capital development, persistent unemployment, and other socio-economic challenges. He assured that within two years, the academy will train and empower millions of Nigerian youths, equipping them with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive.

Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the initiative as a major step toward bridging the skills gap in the job market.

“The president has promised Nigerian youths a platform to realise their dreams. Many young Nigerians aspire to secure good jobs and improve their quality of life,” Olawande said.