Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Nigerian youths to take the lead in building a digital, inclusive and sustainable economy, stressing the need to combine technology with integrity, creativity and problem-solving skills.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, spoke at the 4th Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Generation Next Forum in Lagos. He said young Nigerians were already driving innovation through fintech, online businesses, applications and remote work.
The governor disclosed that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund had disbursed more than 15 billion naira to over 20,000 MSMEs, supporting more than 320,000 jobs. He added that Lagos innovation programmes had supported over 240 startups and trained about 1,000 youths in software development, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
CIBN President, Dr Dele Alabi, said the institute would collaborate with state governments to establish youth innovation hubs, beginning in Lagos. He said the hubs would provide opportunities for skills development, innovation, networking and entrepreneurship.
Alabi also urged young Nigerians and bankers to acquire artificial intelligence skills as technology continues to reshape banking and the workplace. However, he warned that AI-related risks, including cybersecurity, fraud and identity theft, must be properly managed.
Managing Director of Lotus Bank, Dr Isiaka Ajani-Lawal, encouraged youths to adopt the HELD framework — Habits, Execution, Learning to Lead and Discipline — as tools for personal and professional growth. He urged them to develop productive habits, turn ideas into results, continuously learn new skills and build the discipline required for integrity and long-term success.
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