Abuja: Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on Nigerian youths to spearhead the creation of a digital, inclusive, and sustainable economy. Represented by the Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, Sanwo-Olu made the appeal during the 4th Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Generation Next Forum 4.0 held in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sanwo-Olu highlighted that young Nigerians are already at the forefront of future advancements through applications, online businesses, remote work, and fintech innovations. He emphasized the necessity of complementing technology with integrity, discipline, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The Governor shared that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund has distributed over N15 billion to more than 20,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), creating over 320,000 jobs, including N1.9 billion earmarked for 2025. Furthermore, Lagos innovation initiatives have supported over 240 startups, training around
1,000 youths in software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Sanwo-Olu assured that the government remains committed to generating opportunities for youths through funding, skill development, technology hubs, and workplace partnerships. He urged banks and businesses to regard young individuals as partners in innovation, offering mentorship and opportunities to them. “Tomorrow belongs to the young, but tomorrow is being built today,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The CIBN President, Dr. Dele Alabi, also addressed the forum, revealing the institute’s plan to collaborate with state governments to establish youth innovation hubs. These hubs will serve as platforms for skill development, innovation, networking, and entrepreneurship for young Nigerians. Alabi mentioned that the programme would initially commence in Lagos before extending to other states, emphasizing that youths, who comprise about 70% of Nigeria’s population, are crucial to economic growth. He underscored the institute’s IMPACT Vision, w
hich focuses on generational, gender, and geographical inclusion, alongside skills development and innovation.
Alabi noted that five of Africa’s nine billion-dollar startups are based in Nigeria, showcasing the innovative capacity of Nigerian youths. He encouraged young people to seize emerging opportunities, mentorship, and digital platforms to harness their potential. In discussions with journalists, Alabi pointed out that artificial intelligence has significantly transformed banking and the future of work. He urged both bankers and young Nigerians to acquire AI skills and utilize technology to enhance productivity and efficiency, while also managing risks like cybersecurity, fraud, and identity theft.
Dr. Isiaka Ajani-Lawal, Managing Director of Lotus Bank, advocated for the development of four essential qualities among youths to thrive in a changing economy. Introducing the H E L D framework, representing Habits, Execution, Learning to Lead, and Discipline, Ajani-Lawal stressed the importance of consist
ent positive habits in building credibility and a strong reputation. He encouraged youths to bridge the gap between ideas and results through effective execution and highlighted the necessity of continuous learning, especially as AI and other technologies reshape the workplace. With 29 years of banking experience, Ajani-Lawal emphasized self-discipline as vital for integrity, credibility, and enduring success, urging youths to cultivate productive habits, execute delayed ideas, learn new skills, and overcome personal weaknesses.