Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its digital evolution. Ilesanmi Ade-Ademola, a prominent advocate for youth development and technology innovation, emphasises that the country’s success in the global digital economy hinges on empowering its young population. With over 60% of Nigerians under the age of 30, the nation possesses a demographic advantage that, if harnessed correctly, can drive innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness. According to Ade-Ademola, this is not just a social imperative—it is an economic one.
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Bridging the Gap
Despite the youthful energy and talent available, millions of Nigerian youths remain disconnected from opportunities in the digital economy. Limited access to relevant skills, mentorship, and technology infrastructure has created a digital divide that threatens to leave many behind. “Every young person left outside the digital space is a missed opportunity for national progress,” Ade-Ademola observes.
He stresses that bridging this gap requires more than symbolic initiatives or short-term interventions. Government agencies, educational institutions, and private organisations must collaborate to deliver robust digital literacy programs, coding workshops, and entrepreneurial training. Investment in such programs, he notes, does not just empower individuals—it contributes directly to national economic growth, job creation, and Nigeria’s ability to compete globally.
Transforming Youth into Innovators and Leaders
Ade-Ademola argues that equipping young people with digital skills transforms them from passive consumers into innovators, creators, and potential employers. Skills in coding, app development, artificial intelligence, and data analytics can enable Nigerian youths to develop solutions that address local challenges while also creating economic value. “When youth are given the right tools and opportunities, they become creators, innovators, and employers,” he adds.
Through initiatives like Prime Property by LAH and the upcoming PrimePredict AI, Ade-Ademola demonstrates the practical impact of technology in shaping smarter investments and driving innovation across Africa. He highlights success stories of Nigerian youths leveraging digital tools to solve real-world problems—whether it’s artisans using tech to expand their markets or students transforming community challenges into scalable tech solutions. These examples show that digital empowerment translates into tangible economic outcomes and societal benefits.
From Consumption to Creation
A central point in Ade-Ademola’s message is the need to shift the mindset of Nigerian youths from consumption to creation. For the country to achieve long-term economic resilience, it cannot rely solely on natural resources or political manoeuvring. Instead, it must invest in human capital and innovation. “A nation that prioritises digital literacy and entrepreneurship equips its youth to lead Africa’s next wave of technological advancement,” he asserts.
By encouraging young people to become creators rather than mere users of technology, Nigeria can nurture a generation capable of designing solutions, building industries, and driving economic transformation. This mindset shift is crucial for sustaining growth, increasing global competitiveness, and positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
A National Call to Action
Ade-Ademola’s message is both clear and urgent: Nigeria’s digital future depends on the deliberate empowerment of its youth. All stakeholders—government, private sector, and educational institutions—must commit to providing training, mentorship, and access to technology infrastructure. “If we want a nation that competes globally, we must empower our young people to dream, create, innovate, and lead,” he emphasises.
Investing in youth empowerment is not an optional endeavour; it is essential for turning Nigeria’s demographic advantage into sustainable economic growth. By fostering an ecosystem that encourages digital skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation, the country can ensure that its young population becomes its most significant asset. The decisions made today will shape whether Nigeria emerges as a leader in Africa’s digital future.
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