Oluremi Tinubu, wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has urged Nigerian youth to leverage technology to drive innovation and social development. This call was made during the Nigeria GovTech Conference and Awards held in Abuja on Thursday.
The Minister of State for Youth, Ayodele Olawande, also emphasized the critical role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s future. He stated that young people are the driving force behind innovation, particularly in the digital realm, and that effective governance should prioritize empowering the youth.
Olawande highlighted the importance of youth engagement in policy-making and cited alarming statistics regarding youth in correctional facilities as a reminder of the urgent need for targeted support and empowerment. He stressed that the focus should be on empowering youth rather than solely catering to older generations.
The conference, themed “Digital Innovation as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reflects President Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive and digitally-driven Nigeria. The event attracted a diverse group of thought leaders, technology experts, and government representatives.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, echoed the call for collaboration, noting that the government’s commitment to a digital-first approach is crucial for achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasized the need to modernize operations, streamline processes, and create more transparent and efficient systems.
Olawande reiterated the readiness of the youth to partner with leaders for positive societal impact, saying, “We, the youth, are ready to partner with you and contribute to the positive development of our society. Let’s work together to create a brighter future.”