Poverty: Youths Not Problem But Solution, Says Presidency

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (SSAP-TVEE), Dr Abiola Arogundade, has described Nigerian youths as a solution and not the problem to the nation’s challenges, particularly poverty.

Arogundade stated this at the close of the Abuja phase of the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS), a 10-day programme aimed at accelerating poverty reduction through economic growth and social protection.

The presidential aide said from the basic elements of the Cybersecurity and Web Development under the NPRGS, to their first websites, the participants had, within the ten days, proven, that given the right incentive, Nigerian youths could reach the highest level of production.

Noting that the participants came in anxious if the training was just any other of the government programmes, the SSAP-TVEE declared, “as I stand before you, I see those questions replaced by confidence and clarity, and by purpose.

“I see young Nigerians who now carry renewed hope. From lines of code to your first websites, from data firewalls to collaboration, you have proven that with access, and the right kind of investment, Nigerian youths are not the problem, but the solution”, she said.

Arogundade stated that the initiative, borne from the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu, was not just about training but unlocking dignity, reimagining and creating a Nigeria where no one is left behind.

While congratulating the participants, she said they had shown that the methodology adopted by the OSSAP-TVEE works and commended the facilitators for giving more than their time.

“Let what you have accomplished illuminate a path for others,” she declared, “Our job has not finished. From here, we move on to other states, taking with us the lessons, the energy and the spirit you have ignited here in Abuja,” Arogundade said.

Speaking on behalf of the facilitators, Mr Charles Ofoefule, commended the federal government for its commitment to youth development and the SSAP-TVEE for successfully anchoring the ten-day programme.

He advised the participants to use the experience acquired and the laptops to advance their skills for a better living.

While welcoming the participants in the solar energy installation upscaling programme which also kicked off, Arogundade urged all beneficiaries of the NPRGS initiative to reciprocate the government’s gesture to break the cycle of poverty in the country.

“You have been selected to participate because we believe in your potential to, not only learn, but to lead. It is an opportunity that is being put before you. It is a launch-pad; your chance to become part of the solution. We are able to provide practical, transformative training like this across the country.

“Approach each day with curiosity, discipline, and belief in what this moment could mean for our future. Let this be more than the start of a course; see it as the start of a new story for you and your community.

“We encourage you to do your best so that we can achieve our goal of removing as many Nigerians out of poverty and this is what your President wants,” she stated.