The Nigerian Government has launched a National Financial Literacy, Investment, and Wealth Creation Training Programme aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the skills needed for entrepreneurship, financial management, and wealth creation. The initiative, unveiled in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, seeks to empower youths to become innovators, job creators, and self-reliant contributors to the nation’s economy.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande emphasized the importance of reshaping youth aspirations beyond traditional government employment. “We must reshape youth aspirations beyond government jobs. Young people must see themselves as creators of value,” he said, highlighting the government’s commitment to nurturing an enterprise-driven generation.
The programme will provide practical training in financial literacy, investment, risk management, and asset-building, as well as access to entrepreneurship resources. Central to the initiative is the newly established Nigeria Youth Academy, a national digital learning platform designed to deliver courses, mentorship, and capacity-building opportunities for millions of young Nigerians.
“Financial literacy is no longer optional; it is a survival skill,” Olawande stated. “Young Nigerians must learn saving, investing, asset-building, risk management, and value creation to thrive in today’s economy.” The minister also shared his personal journey, urging youths to embrace discipline, innovation, and perseverance in shaping their future.
Minister of Economic Planning and Budget, Senator Atiku Bagudu, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to youth inclusion in economic transformation, noting that young Nigerians are essential to achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy by 2030. “The drive toward a trillion-dollar economy demands innovation, bold thinking, and youth participation,” he said, urging youths to leverage technology and digital markets.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Mike Nwaogu, Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, emphasized that the programme reflects the ministry’s dedication to building a financially confident and economically active youth population. Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), added that investing in youths is the nation’s most rewarding long-term asset and called for private sector partnerships to deepen financial inclusion.
Dr. Enefola Odiba, International Programme Director at Investonaire Academy, further noted that while many youths can generate income, managing it effectively requires discipline, consistency, and the practical application of financial knowledge.
The initiative is expected to equip millions of young Nigerians with the tools, knowledge, and mindset required to thrive in business and investment, fostering a generation capable of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
