Tinubu’s Reforms Will Inspire Nigerians Abroad to Return — Youth Minister Olawande

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has declared that the reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are positioning Nigeria on a path to stability and prosperity that will soon encourage many Nigerians living abroad to return home.

Speaking in Akure, Ondo State, during the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the minister emphasized that the current administration is intentionally building a nation where young professionals will find renewed hope and opportunity.

“Everything the President is doing now is for the future. Very soon, Nigerians abroad will prefer to live and work here because the country is being stabilized,” Olawande said after receiving an honour from the monarch.

He praised Tinubu’s youth-centric governance approach, noting that past administrations often alienated young people from the leadership process. According to him, that trend is changing with deliberate efforts to re-engage youth and build an inclusive governance structure.

The minister outlined various youth empowerment initiatives, including vocational training, entrepreneurship development, and the promotion of creative industries. He said these programmes are designed to equip young Nigerians with skills needed to compete globally and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Olawande further explained that the Ministry of Youth Development is collaborating with other agencies to deliver impactful programmes across key sectors such as sports, agriculture, and entertainment.

“We are not stopping anyone from traveling. Let them go, gain experience, and return to help build Nigeria. Our goal is to make Nigeria a land of opportunity where success is possible,” he said.

He also shared his experience during a recent diplomatic visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he received unprecedented access, which he attributed to the growing international respect for Nigeria under President Tinubu.

“I was the first black Nigerian to receive such access there. This recognition reflects the renewed global perception of Nigeria, thanks to the president’s efforts,” Olawande added.

Olawande’s remarks come amid continued debates on Nigeria’s “Japa” wave where thousands of professionals leave the country for better opportunities abroad. His comments suggest a counter-narrative: that government reforms will eventually make Nigeria a viable destination once again for its global diaspora.

“Young Nigerians should take advantage of the opportunities being created. The Tinubu administration is investing in the future,” the minister urged.