Behavioral and developmental expert, Kemi Olokode-Ayelabola, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace government empowerment initiatives, prioritize education, and remain focused in order to achieve their aspirations and secure a prosperous future.
Olokode-Ayelabola, who served as Chairperson and Convener of Asiwaju Renewed Hope (ARH’23) during the 2023 presidential election, emphasized that the destiny of any nation rests largely on the shoulders of its youth.
She made the remarks as a panelist during a webinar themed “Building a Brighter Future for Nigerian Youths Through Good Governance”, organized in Lagos by senior journalists led by Emmanuel Ajibulu, publisher of Veracity Desk.
Highlighting the untapped potential of millions of young Nigerians, she noted that their skills, ideas, and innovations could drive economic and social transformation if given the right opportunities.
“Students and young people are not only beneficiaries of development; they are partners in building the future the country desires. Any 20-year development plan must prioritize education, skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, technology, and youth participation,” she said.
Olokode-Ayelabola commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for operationalizing the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a visionary initiative that provides interest-free loans to students in tertiary institutions.
She stressed that the scheme addresses decades of financial barriers that hindered access to higher education, ensuring that no student is denied learning opportunities due to lack of funds. Beyond tuition support, she explained, NELFUND democratizes opportunity by empowering students from diverse backgrounds to acquire knowledge and skills critical to national development.
The Ireland-based professional further noted that the initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places human capital development at the core of Nigeria’s growth strategy.
“This is about creating a better future for the youths and ultimately for our dear country,” she added.
Olokode-Ayelabola also praised the administration’s inclusion of young people in governance, pointing out that several cabinet members are under 40 years of age.
“It is a thing of joy that youths are taking charge. Their inclusion in leadership is proof that the government recognizes their role in shaping Nigeria’s future,” she said.
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