The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has stressed the need to prioritise youth development towards harnessing their untapped potential in tackling hardship and reduce criminality and create jobs.
Oba Owoade pledged to establish a centre where the youths will be trained to acquire digital skills to curb cybercrimes, but which will empower them to tap into global digital job market from the comfort of their rooms.
The royal father stated this at a press conference as part of activities marking his 50th birthday anniversary at his palace in Oyo Town.
He noted that the absence of viable pathways for self-improvement and prosperity has lured the youth into criminality as perceived means of survival.
The Alaafin added that the cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement among the young people has become a breeding ground for radicalisation and recurring criminal activities.
As part of initiatives to harness their enormous potential and mitigate the security challenges bedevelling the nation, the Alaafin called for a comprehensive youth development approach.
“Any serious people must prioritise the youths because they are the very basis of the future of any country or society. The foundation of any nation lies in its educational system, therefore investments in quality education, vocational training, and skill development programmes are crucial in the drive to equip the youths with the tools needed for meaningful productivity and economic engagement.
“Skilled and educated youths with means of livelihood are less likely to be lured into criminal activities,” the revered monarch stated.
He added that entrepreneurship programmes, funding, and mentorship opportunities can help foster a culture of innovation and self-sufficiency among the young people to redirect their energies towards productive endeavours.
He stressed that the centre was conceived due to the inclination of the youths towards technology and innovations.
“Leveraging these tendencies can propel Nigeria into a new era of economic prosperity. Investments in technology, digital literacy, and support for tech-driven startups can create a conducive environment for youth-led innovations,” the monarch said.
Oba Owoade maintained that by investing in education, creating employment opportunities, fostering social inclusion, and addressing systemic issues, Nigeria can unlock the vast potential of its youths and creating a secure and prosperous nation that works for everyone.
“It’s a collective responsibility that demands immediate and sustained action to pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria and its youthful population,” he said.
He noted further that, “”The global workforce is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, economic shifts, and demographic changes. At the centre of this transformation is the growing youthful population, positioned as a critical asset for driving innovation, economic growth, and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
“As we navigate the convergence of a diverse skilled workforce, it becomes imperative to harness the potential of the youths, providing them with the necessary education, training, and opportunities for employability”.
Alaafin further warned against cybercrimes, saying the menace causes financial losses, damage reputations, disrupt critical infrastructure, and erode public trust.
He made case for skills in cyber security which the monarch said offers strong security against surveillance, data exploitation, and identity fraud, thereby allowing individuals to use digital services with confidence and control over their own data.
