African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina says the future for Nigeria’s youth does not lie abroad.
Mr. Adesina was speaking on Friday at a public lecture organized to commemorate the 90th birthday of former military head of state Yabuku Gowon, saying that by creating a stable micro-economic environment, Nigeria will attract young and innovative talent. He said the cause of the large-scale leak must be resolved.
He said consistent and sustainable government policies can make Nigeria globally competitive.
“The Japa syndrome risks collapsing Nigeria’s capabilities unless urgent action is taken to stem the tide. According to a 2022 TechCabal survey, 47% of Nigeria’s technology professionals He has indicated his intention to leave Nigeria by then.”
“This will seriously hamper Nigeria’s technological capabilities and ability to respond to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and move into high-end industries such as electronics, semiconductors, appliance and machinery development and, of course, space exploration. There is no doubt about it.
“We must address the reasons for the massive exodus of young and innovative talent in Nigeria. We need state-of-the-art facilities and technology hubs, support for innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhanced talent and financial incentives.
“We have to do this with an eye to what we can potentially become. Not just in West Africa, not just in Africa, but all over the world. We must categorically annex Nigeria. and must transform Nigeria’s demographic assets into human capital dividends.
“We are building a global Nigeria full of talent, skills and entrepreneurship, supported by clear, consistent and sustainable government policies to be globally competitive and retain young talent.” must be.
“If we want to drive growth and competitiveness globally. I’m not against immigration, but the future of Nigerian youth and Africa is in Europe, America, China and other places. I don’t believe that.”
Adesina said the future of the youth lies in “Nigeria growing very well with equitable growth”.
