Tinubu Urges South-East Students To Embrace Digital Innovation, Lead Nigeria's Future

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged students across the South-East to embrace digital innovation, entrepreneurship and responsible leadership as key pillars for Nigeria's future. 

The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to placing young people at the centre of national development.

The President spoke through his Senior Special Assistant on Students' Engagement, Comrade Sunday Asefon Daya, at the Renewed Hope Student Leaders' Engagement and Digital Acceleration Programme for the South-East Zone held in Enugu, on Friday.

The President said that the Renewed Hope Agenda recognises Nigeria's youthful population as the nation's greatest asset and continues to drive policies aimed at equipping students with the skills and opportunities required to excel in the digital age.

He described the gathering of student leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, academics and development partners as a demonstration of the government's commitment to building a stronger, more innovative and prosperous Nigeria through youth empowerment.

According to the President's representative, the South-East has long distinguished itself in enterprise, innovation and resilience, making the region a fitting venue to celebrate students who have harnessed digital technology to transform their communities and contribute to national development.

He stressed that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, software development and digital marketing, are reshaping the global economy, adding that Nigerian students must position themselves as creators of innovative solutions rather than mere consumers of technology.

Asefon said the programme was designed to strengthen engagement between government and student leaders, expose participants to digital opportunities that enhance employability and entrepreneurship, and inspire a new generation of leaders capable of using technology to solve societal challenges.

He urged student leaders to embrace service, integrity and accountability, noting that the future of campuses and the nation depends on leaders who can foster unity, peaceful coexistence and innovation.

The presidential aide also encouraged participants to take advantage of the programme's interactive sessions and networking opportunities to build lasting partnerships and develop practical ideas that would benefit their institutions and communities.

Reaffirming the administration's commitment to students, Asefon said the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students' Engagement would continue to promote dialogue between government and students while advocating policies that support educational development, digital inclusion, youth empowerment and national cohesion.

He also commended the programme's partners, facilitators and stakeholders for supporting the initiative, urging students to believe in themselves, embrace innovation and acquire relevant digital skills needed to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria's development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.