Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has emphasized that Nigerian youths do not require empowerment programs or handouts. Instead, he believes that the key to addressing the challenges faced by young Nigerians, including the rising trend of migration (commonly referred to as “japa”), lies in providing them with the capital needed to grow their businesses and entrepreneurial ideas. In his recent interview with Channels Television, Adesina explained that the mass migration of young people from Nigeria and other African countries in search of better opportunities abroad is a significant issue. However, the AfDB is taking steps to address this growing problem. According to Adesina, “We must acknowledge that young people do not need to be handed out freebies. What they truly need is not the so-called empowerment programs, but capital. They have the skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial mindset to turn their ideas into successful businesses.” Adesina pointed out that the current financial systems in Africa, especially the banking sector, fail to support young entrepreneurs. “As a banker, when a 21-year-old walks into a bank, the only thing the bank sees is risk. There’s no system that allows young people to access funding, as they lack the required collateral such as property or long-term financial records,” he explained. He further stressed that Africa has a vast youth population, with over 460 million individuals between the ages of 15 and 35. This demographic is seen as a potential asset for the continent’s economic development. However, to harness this potential, financial institutions must provide better access to capital for young people. Adesina’s message is clear: rather than offering handouts, Africa’s financial systems must evolve to provide young people with the tools they need to succeed. “Capital is what young entrepreneurs need to grow their businesses. Only then can we transform our youth from a demographic liability into an economic asset.” Focus Keywords: Nigerian youths, AfDB President, Akinwumi Adesina, youth empowerment, youth migration, African youth, capital for entrepreneurs, youth business growthImage Keyphrase: “” READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Vice-President Kashim Shettima represents Nigeria at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, engaging in strategic workshops, bilateral meetings, and discussions on Africa’s digital trade and economic development. Vice-President Kashim Shettima has embarked on a critical mission to represent Nigeria at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. This prestigious annual event brings together global leaders, business executives, and development partners to discuss and address pressing global economic challenges. Key Highlights of Shettima’s Participation Bilateral Meetings and Collaborative Workshops During his stay in Davos, Vice-President Shettima is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with world leaders and actively participate in high-level workshops and forums. These engagements aim to foster international cooperation and strengthen Nigeria’s global economic ties. Roadmap to Investment in Africa One of the standout sessions the Vice-President will attend is the workshop titled, “Roadmap to Co-create Investment Opportunities for Africa’s Frontier Markets.” Organized by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in collaboration with WEF, this workshop is designed to: Key announcements, such as the launch of the Humanitarian and Resilience Investing (HRI) Roadmap for Africa, will also feature prominently. This initiative is expected to mobilize investments through strategic partnerships between public and private sector leaders. Strategic Engagements at the Congress Centre Vice-President Shettima’s itinerary includes attending a dinner for heads of state, government officials, and international organizations. He will also join the Annual Meeting and the 2025 Crystal Awardees of the International Business Council and Strategic Partners at Kurpark Village in Eiger. Focus on Digital Trade Co-chairing a forum titled “Turning Digital Trade into a Catalyst for Growth in Africa,” the Vice-President will spotlight the critical role of digital trade in advancing economic integration. This session will focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Protocol adopted by the African Union in January 2024. It aims to: Global Risks 2025 Dialogue Shettima will also serve as a panelist in the stakeholder dialogue, “Global Risks 2025.” This session will provide insights into emerging global risks and strategies to address them, further demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to proactive global engagement. Accompanying Delegation The Vice-President is accompanied by key government officials, including: Return to Nigeria After completing his engagements at the WEF, Vice-President Shettima will return to Abuja, equipped with valuable insights and partnerships to further Nigeria’s development goals. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
