The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, and the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mr. Bosun Tijani, jointly said yesterday that the cornerstone of a great nation lies in robust institutions and investments in human resources, with a special focus on the country’s youth.
Oyedele and Tijani delivered their remarks at The Platform, a national development fair hosted by The Covenant Nation, which is known for its non-political and non-partisan approach.
During his address, Oyedele cautioned against harbouring negative thoughts or wishing harm upon those who decide to stay in Nigeria as he addressed the issue of emigration.
He made a case for the pivotal role of strong institutions and human capital investments in the quest to build a great nation, underscoring the imperative for governments at all tiers to give due attention to these critical areas.
Oyedele pressed for the establishment of conditions that support business growth, suggesting that such an approach would reduce the inclination of individuals to migrate.
His words: ‘There is nothing wrong in leaving, don’t get me wrong. But if you leave, don’t wish the rest of us bad.’
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‘And while you are here and continue to be here, don’t wish us evil. If you have citizens, who are actively working against their country, there is no amount of prayers you will pray, that country will not succeed.’
‘Even if you are planning to leave, just remember, there are 95 per cent of us who cannot go anywhere.’
While acknowledging the value of patriotism, he firmly stated that the development of Nigeria is a task that cannot be undertaken by foreigners.
‘All the countries that were developed were developed by their people,’ he added.
Speaking from his position, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mr. Bosun Tijani, stated that the youth of the country are its most significant asset, and given the right encouragement, they have the capacity to reshape the world.
He highlighted that Africa is home to a significant youth demographic, and Nigeria, in particular, hosts a substantial portion of this population, including a considerable number who are tech-savvy.
His words: ‘If you have a second passport and you live in another country, you would find probably ten software engineers in Lagos before you find one in the UK in your cycle. Or if you are in the US, before you find one software engineer there, you would find ten in Lagos, or in Nairobi, or Jo’burg. That’s the reality.’
‘We are the future. And you know why we are the future here? We are a continent of 1.2 billion and 40 per cent of those are young people – across Africa – I believe under the age of 25. And this is where Nigeria is important. It is not just that we show off for the sake of showing off.’