At the graduation ceremony of the Senior Executive Course 46 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu charged policy makers to spearhead Nigeria’s digital transformation and tech-driven economic growth.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President emphasized the administration’s commitment to revitalizing NIPSS by digitizing its operations, developing an advanced e-library, and establishing virtual learning platforms to enhance executive education.
President Tinubu highlighted that the theme of this year’s course, “Digital Economy, Youth Empowerment, and Sustainable Job Creation in Nigeria,” aligns with his administration’s priorities. He underscored the importance of policy research, youth empowerment, and technological innovation in shaping the country’s future.
“The task ahead is not an easy one, but I do not doubt that you are equal to it. You must return to your organizations and communities with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that the future of our nation rests, in part, on the quality of leadership you provide,” he stated.
President Tinubu stressed the need to leverage Nigeria’s youthful population—over 60% of the total demographic—to propel economic transformation.
“Young people are our greatest asset. Their energy, creativity, and technological prowess must be fully harnessed to propel our country into a new era of economic transformation. This is an investment we cannot afford to take for granted,” he said.
To maximize the potential of young Nigerians, the administration plans to expand broadband infrastructure, foster digital entrepreneurship, and implement the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening policy research institutions like NIPSS, which he described as the “fulcrum of strategic thought” in national development.
“No nation that cares about its future underfunds the very institution that provides strategic insights and policy direction for national development,” he added.
He announced plans to revamp NIPSS’s digital infrastructure, including the establishment of an advanced e-library and virtual learning platforms, ensuring that executive education remains accessible and cutting-edge.
Additionally, he highlighted the federal government’s recent approval of the takeover of the Oba Adetona Post-Graduate School of Policy and Governance Studies, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s policy research ecosystem.
President Tinubu reiterated ongoing efforts to empower young Nigerians through vocational training and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“Through initiatives like the Renewed Hope Skills Acquisition Programme, we are equipping young Nigerians with practical skills in technology, construction, and the creative industries,” he said.
Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, expressed the state’s dedication to increasing female participation in NIPSS programs. He also appealed for more admission slots to accommodate the growing demand for policy training in the state.
“I want to congratulate you on having gone through this course, and I hope that what you have learned here will add value to our national progress,” Governor Mutfwang said.
A notable highlight from the graduating class was the development of two humanoid robots using locally sourced materials at the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), a subsidiary of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Monitor-General for Course 46, Colonel Fakandu Mohammed Bala, stated, “The essence is to show that we have the capacity and ability to drive our developmental processes with homegrown technologies. The two robots are designed to improve the efficiency of workplaces such as hospitals and government offices.”
The graduation ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including former Plateau State Governors Joshua Dariye and Major General Lawrence Onoja (rtd), APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, members of the National Assembly, Plateau State House Speaker Hon. Gabriel Dewan, state legislators, security heads, traditional rulers, and other government officials.
As Nigeria moves forward in the digital age, the call for policy makers to embrace and drive technological advancements remains crucial in achieving economic sustainability and growth.
