President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to using education as a major weapon to lift Nigerians especially young people out of poverty.
Speaking on Monday during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja, Tinubu said the government’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms are intentionally structured to empower the next generation with globally competitive skills.
“Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” the President said, noting that Nigeria’s future depends heavily on ensuring young people are equipped for modern opportunities.
According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who issued a statement after the meeting, discussions also covered preparations for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award programmes scheduled to hold in Lagos.
Tinubu, who is expected to participate in the G-20 summit later this week, emphasised that the welfare and development of Nigerian youths remain central to the country’s growth strategy.
“This is Africa’s third time hosting the G-20, and the conversation is centred on the youth. Strengthening our economy and providing skills development opportunities are crucial,” he said. “Our reforms are aimed at unlocking growth and prosperity. They take into account our demographics and the urgent need to develop our human capital.”
He highlighted the newly established Education Loan Fund, which ensures that financially disadvantaged students can obtain higher education without dropping out due to lack of support.
The President also spoke on wider reforms, including the rollout of fibre-optic infrastructure to boost digital access, as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and reduce crime.
He expressed appreciation to humanitarian organisations assisting victims of terrorism in affected regions.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, briefed the gathering on the demographic realities shaping government policies, noting that with a median age of just 17, Nigeria is essentially a youth-driven nation.
Prince Edward, who chairs the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, praised the administration’s reforms and the positive global attention they have attracted. He said the Lagos programme would honour young Nigerians who are developing their talents and contributing meaningfully to national progress.
He announced that 320 Nigerian youths will be celebrated at the Award ceremonies being hosted in partnership with the Lagos State Government.
Prince Edward also commended Minister Edun for his leadership and commitment to youth-focused initiatives.
The meeting was attended by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Secretary-General of the Award, Martin Houghton-Brown; and the International Trustee/Chair of the Africa Region, Muhoho Kenyatta.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global non-formal education programme implemented through schools, community groups and youth organisations, aimed at nurturing skills, resilience and a spirit of service among young people.
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