Tinubu: Education Is Key to Ending Poverty in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu stated that his administration’s economic and institutional reforms aim to empower Nigerian youths with globally competitive skills to secure their future.

“Our aim is to use education to reduce poverty,” Tinubu said during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja on Monday.

Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, shared details of the discussions from Monday, including plans for events related to the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in Lagos.

Tinubu emphasized, “We will take part in the G-20 this week. This is the third time Africa is hosting the G-20, with a focus on our youth. We must strengthen the economy for their benefit.”

“The reforms aim to promote growth and prosperity for the nation while considering our demographics and skills development. We are adopting best practices to find opportunities in various areas of skills improvement.”

He announced the creation of a special education loan fund to ensure that no student is overlooked. This fund guarantees that students admitted to universities receive the necessary support to stay in school and finish their education. “Our aim is to use education as a way to eliminate poverty,” he added.

Tinubu noted that the reform agenda covers multiple sectors, intending to encourage collaboration among stakeholders and build long-term partnerships.

He highlighted initiatives like deploying fiber optics and other infrastructure to improve access and inclusion for young people, along with ongoing security improvements and efforts to reduce crime.

The president thanked humanitarian organizations for their efforts to help victims of terrorism in various parts of the country.

Wale Edun, the Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, updated the meeting on demographics influencing policy decisions, noting that Nigeria’s median age is 17. He mentioned that reforms are designed to expand participation, skills development, and growth opportunities for youth.

Prince Edward, Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, praised the administration’s reforms, saying they have received positive reviews worldwide.

He announced that 320 young Nigerians will be honored at the award events in collaboration with the Lagos State Government.

He also recognized Edun’s contributions to youth-focused reforms and for hosting the program, stating, “We have seen the leadership of the Minister of Finance, who has been an outstanding advocate for young people.”

Attendees of the meeting included Sir Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Award’s Secretary-General, Martin Houghton-Brown; and Muhoho Kenyatta, International Trustee/Chair of the Africa Region.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award serves as a global framework for non-formal education provided through schools, youth organizations, and community groups. It focuses on developing skills, resilience, and a service-oriented mindset among young people.