In a strategic push to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, the Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Planning Committee for the Youth Entrepreneurial and Innovation Alliance (YEIA) Boot Camp.
The initiative, launched in partnership with the Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum, aims to support young Nigerian innovators and startup founders through international exposure, mentorship, and enterprise training.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja. Speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the boot camp as a platform to nurture creativity, build entrepreneurial capacity, and foster bilateral collaboration with Bangladesh.
"This initiative reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda by strengthening ties with the global tech ecosystem, attracting investment, and equipping our youth with market-ready skills," Olawande said.
He emphasized that the boot camp will bring together young innovators from Nigeria and Bangladesh for cross-cultural engagement, industry exposure, and high-level stakeholder interaction.
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The Minister also tasked members of the committee, drawn from various ministries and sectors, with delivering an impactful and nationally representative program.
Representing the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mike Ugwuogu of the Enterprise Development and Promotion Department said the boot camp presents a unique opportunity for Nigerian youth to showcase their innovations, gain global experience, and join networks that support startup growth.
President of the Nigeria-Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum, Mr. Bob Achanya, described the initiative as a strategic platform to connect youth, policymakers, and the private sector. He noted that the goal is to empower over 10 million young people through access to mentorship, training, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to creating enabling environments for youth-led innovation, with a focus on positioning Nigerian youth as global leaders in enterprise and technology.
