In commemoration of Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat’s 60th birthday, the National Youth Symposium themed “Guiding the Youth on the Path to Self-Reliance.” This impactful event united young innovators and industry leaders, empowering Nigeria’s next generation to shift focus from the country’s challenges to its vast opportunities.

Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, urged Nigerian youths to shift their focus from the country’s challenges to its vast opportunities. Hamzat emphasized the importance of resilience, determination, and effective resource management in achieving success.

“Nigerian youths should see beyond present national challenges and take advantage of the country’s numerous opportunities,” Hamzat said. He noted that Nigerian youths have consistently excelled globally in various fields, including science, medicine, music, and football.

“Our music keeps the world dancing. Creativity in technology by our youths has soared very high. Your stars keep shining in the world of football. Nigerians are heading everywhere in the world,” Hamzat said.

Hamzat acknowledged the country’s socioeconomic challenges and insecurity but remains optimistic about Nigeria’s future. He pointed out that despite these issues, foreigners continue to invest and make money in the country.

“Our problems are surmountable, and there are opportunities there. What is it that foreigners are seeing that we are not seeing? We must shine our eyes. We must look back at our history. Our youths are very dynamic,” he said.

The Deputy Governor emphasized the internet’s role in presenting global opportunities for youths to excel. He urged them to learn how to manage their time and resources effectively to become more successful.

“We must engage and encourage our youth. These are pivotal moments in Nigeria. Many have lost hope in reversing negative trends. It’s not right that our youths have no future. I am upbeat and optimistic about this country because of our youth,” Hamzat said.

These are pivotal moments in Nigeria, many have lost hope in reversing negative trends. It’s not right that our youths have no future. I am upbeat and optimistic about this country because of our youth,” Hamzat said.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat’s unwavering commitment and strategic insights, describing them as invaluable to the state’s success. Represented by Sam Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sanwo-Olu expressed gratitude for Hamzat’s dedication to public service and development.

“Obafemi Hamzat’s leadership has left an invaluable mark, and I have no doubt that he will continue to inspire greatness in the years to come,” Sanwo-Olu said

The symposium featured panel discussions on key issues, including food security and talent development. Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the panelists for sharing valuable insights and lessons, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in transforming the lives of millions.

Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, former Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, delivered a powerful address at a youth symposium, stressing the importance of self-reliance among Nigerian youths.

He commended the organizers for their vision, saying, “This is not just a program where we dine and wine; it’s about teaching our youth how to fish rather than giving them fish.” He welcomed the Deputy Governor, acknowledging the significance of the event and its alignment with Nigeria’s current climate.

Citing alarming statistics, Fagbohun highlighted Nigeria’s unemployment rate among youths (15-24 years) at 8.6% in Q3 2015, with 25% of Nigerians aged 15-34 unemployed, and 28% under-employed. He emphasized the need for self-reliance, pointing out that Nigeria’s digital economy contributed 18.44% to the national GDP in 2022.

Fagbohun also addressed the growing trend of Nigerian youths seeking opportunities abroad, popularly known as “JAPA.” “When Nigerians leave our country, they are doing ‘JAPA,’ just like the Chinese and Indians, that is what they did too. We should empower our youths with skills to excel globally, allowing Nigeria to reap the benefits of their contributions in the diaspora.”

Fagbohun concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective engagement and strategic thinking to empower Nigeria’s youth. The symposium aimed to inspire a progress shift, branding innovation, entrepreneurship, and resilience over traditional expectations.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ruth Olusanya, announced plans of Lagos State Government to focus on empowering a previously neglected group of individuals passionate about agriculture. The state government will provide training, mentorship, and support to help them overcome challenges, particularly in land acquisition and ownership.

Olusanya acknowledged that Lagos has sufficient land for agricultural purposes, but the high cost of acquisition hinders development. To address this, the government will make land available for youths to cultivate and grow their produce.

The Commissioner emphasized the importance of supporting the entire agricultural value chain, from production to market. Past initiatives focused on production and processing, but failed to ensure investments translated into price reductions in the market.

Dr. Rabiu Olowo, Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, advised entrepreneurs to look beyond traditional banking for financing options. He emphasized the importance of developing high-value skills and scanning the environment for problem-solving opportunities.

Dr. Stanley Muoneke, charged Nigerian youths to explore their passions, develop their skills, and tap into available opportunities. He stressed the importance of self-discovery, networking, and continuous improvement.

Zainab Alayande, an entrepreneur urged her fellow youths to cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, especially when pursuing their passions without parental support. She shared her personal journey and commitment to giving back.

According to Owolabi Falana, Permanent Board Member of LASUBEB and team lead for the symposium, the event was a resounding success, attracting over 2,000 youths from diverse sectors.

“The symposium provided a platform for young people to learn from professionals who have excelled in their fields,” said Owolabi Falana. “These role models shared their experiences, offering valuable insights and practical advice on how to succeed. Attendees included political leaders, private sector representatives, National Youth Service Corps members, primary school pupils, and many others.”