The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, Rinsola Abiola, has called on young Nigerians to engage with various educational and leadership development initiatives introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking at the inaugural “Next Generation Project” event at Coronation Hall in Kano, Abiola highlighted the administration’s commitment to promoting education and youth empowerment. The project, a collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), aims to enhance civic education and leadership skills among Nigerian youths.
Addressing an audience of senior secondary school students, Abiola emphasized the importance of education for building a prosperous future. She introduced the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a new interest-free loan initiative designed to support tertiary students struggling with tuition payments. “Education holds the key to a more prosperous future,” she said, urging students to prioritise their studies. She countered the notion that education is outdated, asserting that educated individuals bring greater efficiency and organisation to any endeavour.
Abiola further encouraged the students to adopt a strong sense of civic responsibility, emphasising the importance of democracy and nation-building. She called on the youth to actively engage in their communities, fulfil civic duties when they come of age, and contribute to national development. This aligns with the administration’s “Renewed Hope” vision, which views educated and empowered youths as essential to the nation’s progress.
The SSA also advised students to use the internet and social media wisely, suggesting that these platforms should be channels for learning and accessing greater opportunities. She commended Kano State for its support in hosting the event and acknowledged the role of technology in bridging gaps in education and personal development. Additionally, the Kano State NDLEA was present to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse, addressing a major issue affecting Nigerian youth.
The event concluded with a mentorship session led by Dr. Kabir Sufi, a renowned public servant and entrepreneur; Khalifa Mustapha, founder of Enthuse Entrepreneurship Secondary School in Kano; and Bahijjah Shehu Bawa, founder of Bee-Jay Beauty. The program provided young attendees with inspiration and guidance, underscoring the importance of education, entrepreneurship, and community involvement in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria.
