As the world observes International Youth Day 2025, with the theme “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation through Technology and Partnerships”, it offers an opportunity to reflect on the bold steps Nigeria is taking to empower its youthful population.
With over 60% of its citizens under the age of 30, the Nigerian government recognises that the strength of the nation lies in its youth.
Through far-reaching digital initiatives, inclusive policies, and collaboration with the private sector and international stakeholders, Nigeria is laying the foundation for youth to take their rightful place as leaders in innovation, cooperation, and development on the global stage.
The Nigerian government, through its different ministries, has launched a series of strategic programmes to empower young Nigerians. Some of them include:
Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training (YDPAT), a flagship initiative launched in 2025 to equip Nigerian youths with essential knowledge in data privacy, cyber ethics, and digital citizenship.
The Nigeria Startup Act (2022) empowers startups, creates avenues for funding, and promotes global tech partnerships, particularly for youth-led enterprises.
Digital Nigeria Programme provides free online digital skills training in collaboration with global tech firms, helping thousands of young people transition into the digital workforce.
The National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) is a robust framework for building capacity in ICT, boosting broadband infrastructure, and fostering innovation across all regions.
The Artificial Intelligence Research Grants & Blockchain Policy is also meant to support young researchers and developers in frontier technologies, placing Nigerian youths at the forefront of global digital advancement.
The establishment of Innovation and Tech Hubs across multiple states is also to provide incubation, mentorship, and business development services to aspiring youth innovators.
The government’s support has contributed significantly to the rise of youth-led innovations that now define Nigeria’s global image in technology. Notable examples include Flutterwave, a globally recognised fintech company co-founded by young Nigerians, now operating across over 30 countries and engaging in partnerships with international platforms.
Paystack, PiggyVest, Andela, and Thrive Agric—all started by Nigerian youths and now attracting international accolades, investment, and cross-border collaborations.
These success stories reflect how enabling policies, strategic investment, and youth determination are reshaping Nigeria’s role in multilateral digital cooperation.
Despite these achievements, there are still challenges that must be constructively addressed to fully realise the potential of Nigerian youths.
The limited access to high-speed internet and ICT tools still affects many rural and underserved communities.
Another key factor is the high rate of youth unemployment. Meanwhile, while skills training has expanded, the transition from learning to sustainable employment or enterprise remains a gap.
Many promising youth-led innovations still face barriers in securing early-stage capital and global investment.
Other areas are the issues of retaining high-skilled youths, as many seek opportunities abroad due to local limitations; young women and youths from remote regions face greater obstacles in accessing tech-based opportunities and leadership roles.
The way forward is strengthening Nigeria’s youth agenda to consolidate the gains made and close the remaining gaps; to deepen infrastructure investment; and to expand broadband access and digital infrastructure to rural areas through public-private partnerships and community-focused interventions.
The Nigerian government should scale up youth innovation funding by establishing a National Youth Innovation and Technology Fund with special windows for startups led by women and underserved youths.
Link digital training programmes to internship opportunities, innovation hubs, and local industries to ease the transition into employment.
To facilitate Nigerian youth involvement in international fellowships, research networks and policy dialogues through diplomatic channels and multilateral partnerships.
Institutionalise digital and citizenship education by introducing tech skills, ethics, civic responsibility, and global cooperation modules into primary, secondary, and tertiary curricula nationwide.
Engage young people in using digital platforms to promote social inclusion, dialogue, early warning systems, and community cohesion.
This year’s theme of International Youth Day 2025, “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation through Technology and Partnerships,” speaks directly to Nigeria’s national priorities. The Nigerian government has made significant progress in laying the groundwork for youth empowerment and digital transformation, and the momentum continues.
With a vibrant, talented, and digitally conscious youth population, Nigeria is well-positioned to lead in regional cooperation, global innovation, and inclusive development. By addressing existing gaps and scaling up investments, the nation can ensure that its youth not only participate in global conversations but also shape them.
The Nigerian youth are not just the future; they are the voice, vision, and verve of today’s national and global transformation.
