President Bola Tinubu has officially launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a government-backed initiative aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The academy, unveiled on Monday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, underscores the administration's commitment to youth empowerment through digital literacy, technical training, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu emphasized Nigeria's unique demographic advantage, noting that with a median age of 17 years, the country boasts one of the world's youngest populations.
He stressed that empowering the youth with marketable skills is not just a necessity but a strategic investment in Nigeria's future.
Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, highlighted that NiYA is designed to bridge the existing skill gap in the job market, ensuring that Nigerian youths have access to practical, in-demand skills that will enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
According to him, "The dream of many young Nigerians is to secure good jobs and live better lives, and NiYA is here to turn that dream into reality."
As part of the launch, six beneficiaries, one from each geopolitical zone, were awarded N1 million startup grants to kick-start their entrepreneurial journeys.
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Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, described NiYA as a game-changing initiative that aligns with the aspirations of over 60 million young Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 35.
"Skills, not just certificates, are the real currency of today's global digital economy. NiYA is more than a learning platform, it is a launch pad for a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals who can compete globally from the comfort of their homes using digital tools," Edun stated.
The government urges young Nigerians to seize the opportunities provided by NiYA, emphasizing that the academy is open to all youths seeking to enhance their skills, build careers, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
