President Bola Tinubu has expressed admiration for the vibrancy, talent, and eagerness to learn demonstrated by Nigerian youths, stating that they are ready to compete globally. During a meeting with Ms. Reeta Roy, the President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, President Tinubu affirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting public-private partnerships that aim to provide dignified work and employment opportunities for Nigerian youths.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu lauded the Mastercard Foundation’s initiative, which seeks to create 10 million jobs for young Nigerians. He emphasized that the program aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda for economic development and job creation.
“We believe in what you are doing. We are determined to run an inclusive government and change the dynamics and perception of this country. Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and, as such, must take its leadership of this continent very seriously. We must give hope and assurance to our teeming youth population,” President Tinubu stated.
Acknowledging the role of leadership, President Tinubu noted the growing reputation of Nigeria in various sectors of the economy and expressed the government’s commitment to achieving sustainable growth.
The President also welcomed the Mastercard Foundation’s emphasis on digitization, recognizing technology as a potent tool against corruption. He assured the foundation of a robust and focused collaboration, stating, “We are ready to work with you and remove all impediments, and we have assembled a great team to work with you.”
Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the Mastercard Foundation’s wide-reaching impact across Africa and its capacity to positively influence human capital development in Nigeria.
Mastercard Foundation CEO, Ms. Reeta Roy, informed the President about the foundation’s focus on education and financial inclusion in Africa, particularly Nigeria, with a goal to impact 30 million young Africans by 2030. She reported progress on the 10 million target for Nigeria, stating that 2.1 million young people trained under the ‘Young Africa Work Strategy’ are already engaged in dignified work.
Ms. Roy expressed excitement about the Foundation’s exploration of the healthcare sector as part of the economic landscape with opportunities for young people. She thanked President Tinubu for placing young people at the core of the economic growth agenda and highlighted the foundation’s commitment to being a steadfast and learning partner.
