The Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, has urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of emerging opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development.
Speaking in Abuja at a youth training and competition programme, the minister said the future of Nigeria’s economy lies in the ability of its young population to embrace technology, think creatively, and develop solutions that address real-world challenges.

The event was organised by NextWear Technologies in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialised agency of the United Nations.
Represented by Chief Obinna Nwaka, the minister emphasised that Nigerian youths must go beyond traditional career paths and position themselves within the global technology ecosystem.

He noted that AI and robotics are rapidly reshaping industries worldwide, creating new opportunities for innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
According to him, “The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and technology is at the centre of that transformation. Nigerian youths must be ready to embrace innovation, acquire relevant digital skills, and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

He acknowledged that access to technology remains uneven, particularly in rural communities where infrastructure and digital literacy gaps persist.
However, he expressed optimism that ongoing government policies, combined with increased awareness driven by the media and private sector initiatives, would gradually bridge the divide.

“The government is committed to ensuring that no young Nigerian is left behind in this digital revolution. With sustained investment in education, innovation hubs, and connectivity, even those in rural areas will soon be able to access the same opportunities,” he added.
The minister also stressed the importance of creativity and problem-solving, urging participants to see technology not just as a tool, but as a means to transform society.

He encouraged them to explore how AI and robotics can be applied to critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.
In her remarks, the host of the event, Kemisola Bolarinwa, said the initiative is designed to inspire a new generation of innovators who will use technology to tackle pressing challenges, particularly in food security and sustainable development.

She noted that exposing young people to hands-on training and competitive platforms helps to build confidence, nurture talent, and prepare them for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Also speaking, the West Africa Area Representative of ITU, Ali Drissa Badiel, described the programme as a strategic investment in Africa’s future.

He said the continent now has a unique opportunity to leverage AI and digital technologies to accelerate development and close the gap with more advanced economies.
“Africa may have missed earlier industrial revolutions, but with AI, we have another chance to catch up and even lead in innovation. These young participants represent the future, and with the right support, they can become world-class inventors and problem solvers,” he said.

Badiel further emphasised that early exposure to technology is critical in shaping the mindset and capabilities of young people, noting that initiatives like this create a strong foundation for long-term growth.
In the same vein, the Founder and Executive Director of STEM Garages Africa, Engr. Ronald Ajiboye, revealed that winners of the competition, drawn from both public and private schools, would not only receive prizes but also earn the opportunity to represent Nigeria at an international event later this year in Geneva.

He said the exposure would allow participants to interact with peers from across the world, showcase their innovations, and gain valuable experience on the global stage.
The event, which attracted students, educators, and technology enthusiasts, underscores the growing importance of digital skills in shaping the future of Nigeria’s workforce.

Stakeholders at the programme agreed that sustained collaboration between government, private sector players, and international organisations will be key to unlocking the full potential of Nigerian youths in the age of AI and robotics.