Tinubu meets Duke of Edinburgh, discusses Youth Development Initiatives

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized that his administration’s sweeping reforms are designed to equip Nigerian youths with the necessary skills, opportunities, and institutional support to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

The President made this statement during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, who visited the State House in Abuja to brief him on activities of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation in Lagos.

Describing youths as the “heart of Nigeria’s development agenda,” President Tinubu said his government’s reforms—including education financing, digital infrastructure expansion, and skills development—aim to enable young Nigerians to compete globally.

“We need to strengthen the economy for our youths. The reforms are about growth and prosperity for the nation. They take into full consideration our demography and the need for skills development,” he said, adding that best practices are being emulated to explore opportunities across multiple sectors.

Highlighting the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NEFUND), the President stressed that no student admitted into tertiary institutions should drop out due to financial constraints. He also noted that nationwide infrastructure upgrades, such as the laying of fibre-optic cables, would expand access to technology, deepen inclusion, and integrate young people into the digital economy.

President Tinubu further noted that security remained a top priority, praising humanitarian organisations for supporting victims of terrorism and internal displacement. Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, added that Nigeria’s youthful population—with a median age of 17—continues to shape reforms focused on skills development and job creation.

Prince Edward lauded the Tinubu administration for the reforms, noting their positive global reception. The Lagos award ceremony will celebrate 320 young Nigerians who have demonstrated resilience, passion, and commitment to personal development.

The Duke of Edinburgh was accompanied by the British High Commissioner in Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; his Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Secretary-General of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, Martin Houghton-Brown; and International Trustee for Africa, Muhoho Kenyatta.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global non-formal education framework that equips young people with skills, resilience, and a sense of service through schools, youth organisations, and community groups worldwide.