The Federal Government has restated its commitment to fostering economic stability and empowering Nigeria’s youth as a driving force for national development.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made this assurance in Abuja when he received a delegation from the Arewa Youth Forum, AYF, on a courtesy visit.
According to a statement by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, Edun emphasized that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is implementing several initiatives to enhance youth participation and financial inclusion under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He noted that among these key initiatives is the Student Loan Programme which over 100,000 students have benefited, with N30 billion allocated.
Others are Digital & Creative Economy Fund – Providing targeted support for youth-led businesses, including women entrepreneurs; Consumer Credit Access – Expanding financial access for young Nigerians; and Infrastructure Development – Driving economic growth by unlocking the agricultural sector’s potential.
The minister highlighted the government’s determination to eliminate barriers hindering youth participation in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and exports. He urged young Nigerians to seize available economic opportunities and engage with government policies.
Commending the AYF’s vision, Edun reassured the delegation of the administration’s focus on building an inclusive and sustainable economy. “The future belongs to you,” he stated, calling for continued collaboration between youth groups and the government to drive economic growth.
Earlier, AYF National President, Ahmed Mohammed Zagi, praised the ministry’s achievements under Tinubu’s leadership, particularly in job creation, poverty alleviation, and economic expansion in Northern Nigeria.
Zagi expressed the forum’s interest in partnering with the government on initiatives that promote employment, economic empowerment, and national development.
While acknowledging the government’s ongoing palliative measures, he appealed for additional support ahead of Ramadan to cushion the impact of economic hardships on ordinary Nigerians.
