The Federal Government has called on young Nigerians to convert their time online into tools for growth and financial independence.
Hajia Hauwa Liman, Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Women, Youth Engagement and Impact, made the appeal on Saturday at a youth summit held in Uyo.
Addressing participants at the gathering themed, “Leveraging Opportunities: Building a Future-Ready Youth,” Liman encouraged young people to embrace actions that would position them for independence and long-term success.
She explained that while government’s responsibility is to create a conducive atmosphere for productivity, “as youths, our future is in our hands”
”There are opportunities locally and globally, it is left for us to tap into them in productive ways, we can achieve any goal we set to pursue.
”We are in social media age, I urge you to use the social media to develop yourselves. The opportunities in the social media are vast.
“You don’t need a Godfather to invest in yourself. Be deliberate about self-development
“When you invest in yourself, opportunities will open,” she said.
In a keynote presentation, Prof. Akpan Ekpo of the University of Uyo urged authorities at all tiers of government to design policies that would equip young people for emerging realities.
Ekpo, a Professor of Economics and Public Policy, advised the Federal Government to review the national education curriculum to better align with evolving industry demands and global developments.
According to him, sustainable national progress depends on recognising young people as key drivers of innovation and reform.
“I must tell the youths that the future would not be handed down to the them on a gold platter, you have to work out your future through productive ventures,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerete Ekanem, encouraged participants to acquire marketable skills and prioritise personal growth to unlock available prospects.
He added that channeling resources into youth-focused initiatives amounted to safeguarding the society’s future.
In her opening remarks, Chairman of the event, Prof. Comfort Ekpo, advised attendees to take advantage of the summit to make defining life choices.
She warned that delay and hesitation could shut the door on transformative opportunities, noting that poverty often persists where chances are ignored.
The summit featured a raffle draw, during which 20 participants received free business registration, while four students in tertiary institutions were awarded tuition-only scholarships.
