The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has charged Nigerian youths to harness their creativity, skills, and determination to position the country as a global hub for innovation and economic growth.
Speaking at the third edition of the institute’s Generation Next Forum in Lagos recently, CIBN President and Chairman of Council, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, said the country’s median age of 18 years presented a unique demographic advantage that could be turned into a powerful driver of national transformation.
Themed “Think, Innovate, Transform: The Power of Youth in Repositioning Nigeria for Sustainable Development”, the forum was organised to mark the 2025 International Youth Day. Olanrewaju said the event aimed to inspire young Nigerians to lead in an era of rapid digital disruption and shifting global priorities.
“This youthful energy is a powerful resource, not a liability. If properly harnessed with vision, creativity, and determination, it can reposition Nigeria as a global innovation hub,” he said, calling for greater investments in education, job creation, and capacity building.
He noted that the CIBN’s long-term commitment to youth empowerment was focused on shifting the economy from consumption-driven to production-led growth, urging participants to “engage deeply, connect boldly, and be ready to lead.”
Other speakers echoed the call for innovation and resilience. Mrs. Chinwe Iloghalu, Acting MD of Nova Bank, urged youths to challenge the status quo and explore solutions to national problems, while Alpha Morgan Bank GMD, Mr. Ade Buraimo, advised them to seek mentorship and “turn challenging situations into opportunities.”
NYSC Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Christiana Salmwang, encouraged participants to think beyond limitations and avoid excuses, stressing that “the future is already here.”
Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, Country Manager, West Africa at Mastercard, emphasised integrity, accountability, and purposeful innovation as key to thriving in Nigeria’s financial services sector.
The forum brought together students, graduates, entrepreneurs, and young professionals to explore how Nigeria’s youth can become the vanguard of sustainable development and global competitiveness.
