By Ibironke Ariyo
The Yusuf John-Suberu Foundation, a non-profit organisation, has encouraged Nigerian youths to develop essential entrepreneurial skills to navigate and overcome the current economic challenges facing the nation.
The founder, Dr Yusuf Suberu gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.
Suberu said formal education provides valuable degrees and certificates.
He added that it is equally important for young Nigerians to complement their knowledge with practical business skills, thereby preparing them for real-world challenges and opportunities.
He said Nigeria’s large youth population represents a significant opportunity for the country to become a global economic powerhouse, provided its youth are able to fulfil their potential through developing entrepreneurial skills.
“Nigerian youths must strive to excel in entrepreneurial skills and gain experience that will not only enable them to earn a decent living but also create employment opportunities for others,” he said.
The founder noted that despite the economic crisis, there are still ample opportunities for resourceful individuals to make their fortune in sectors such as agriculture and others where millions of naira could be earned with the right approach.
He stressed the importance of short-term skills acquisition training for Nigerian youths, saying this would help them acquire new skills, knowledge and perspectives to succeed in their chosen fields.
“I believe that self-reliance is the foundation of a life of independence, self-confidence and fulfilment, and I always encourage our youth to adopt this attitude.”
“It is unrealistic for fresh university graduates to expect a luxurious lifestyle immediately after completing their studies and think that a paid job is enough to achieve this goal,” he stated.
Suberu encouraged the youths to make a positive impact on national security by displaying good behaviour and rejecting positivity.
He called on young Nigerians to take responsibility for the future of their country and commit to building a greater Nigeria, while stressing the central role of the youth in shaping the destiny of the country.
“One of our missions is to empower young Nigerians to become active citizens who are prepared to face social challenges and contribute to the growth and development of the country.
“We believe in the potential of our youth to transform Nigeria. We will continue to support and guide each other to become leaders and agents of change,” he stated.
