Nigeria and key stakeholders have been urged to factor in the place of young people in the scheme of things and to rethink its future through youth and innovation.
Professor Oyedunni Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University, Owode, Abeokuta, made the call at the Federal University of Technology Akure FUTA during the University’s School of Logistics and Innovation Technology, SLIT its Annual Lecture and Distinguished Award of Excellence on Monday July 27,2026. Professor Oyedunni who served as the Guest Lecturer and who framed the conversation around youth, innovation and nation building observed that while this generation has more access to information than any before it, the challenge is in applying that knowledge with wisdom and purpose.
In her lecture titled “Nigeria Reimagined: Youth, Innovation and the Architecture of a Great Nation,” she questioned whether Nigeria could become one of the world’s leading innovation economies within the next generation. She answered in the affirmative, but noted that it would require deliberate investment in young people, stronger institutions, and a culture of excellence, accountability and collaboration.
Professor Arulogun said that while Nigeria is blessed with oil and natural resources, nations like Singapore and South Korea prospered because they invested in human capital. She stated that the challenges before us — unemployment, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and weak research and development are problems we can solve. She added that the shift must be from exporting raw materials to exporting knowledge-intensive products, and that universities must become engines of innovation if Nigeria is to compete globally.
She further stated that young people must be prepared for jobs that do not yet exist. She stressed that technological advancement must reach every community, including rural areas, so that all Nigerians can benefit from innovation. Citing 2026 demographic data, she said that with 240 million people and about 90% young and of working age, Nigeria has a critical mass that must be engaged beyond social media. According to her, the opportunity lies in quality education, digital competence, entrepreneurial skills and productive employment. She said Nigerian youth are already showing resilience and creativity in technology, entertainment, agriculture, finance, sports and more, and with the right support, they can invent affordable healthcare solutions and drive financial inclusion across the continent.
In her remarks, the wife of the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Her Excellency Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Commissioner of the Ondo State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Dr Ronke Ojo, commended SLIT for organizing the lecture and said the theme aligns with the vision of the government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa. She noted that youth development remains a priority, and that government is investing in technology, innovation platforms, and entrepreneurship to create opportunities for young people. She urged students of the university and Nigerian youths to embrace patriotism, continuous learning and cooperation with government. She said young people are the future of the nation and encouraged them to build their minds, character and skills.
The Dean of SLIT FUTA, Professor Olayemi Simon-Oke emphasized the importance of the lecture series as a platform for thought leadership and practical solutions to national challenges. The Dean stated that the school is committed to producing graduates who are innovative, problem-solvers and ready for the future of work. He noted that SLIT will continue to partner with industry, government and other stakeholders to ensure its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to societal needs. He called on students to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the school to develop skills in logistics, technology and innovation.
In her address, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji described the lecture as part of the university’s effort to deepen teaching, research and community engagement. She said the event provides an opportunity to listen to perspectives outside the traditional university community and noted that the lecture series has become an important platform for intellectual discourse and national conversation. She highlighted that the university has hosted several academic events in the past month, showing the growing intellectual vibrancy on campus.
She further stated that SLIT occupies a strategic position within the university as one of its fastest growing schools. She explained that from just two departments four years ago, the school now runs seven programs that are in high demand and peculiar to the institution. According to her, the school bridges technology and societal impact by transforming innovative ideas into commercially viable products and services.
She said through its integration of technology, management and innovation, SLIT is positioned to drive sustainable economic growth and improve quality of life. The Vice-Chancellor congratulated the award recipients for their excellence, integrity and service, noting that their achievements inspire future generations and reflect the values of leadership and innovation the university upholds.
The event ended with a renewed commitment from speakers and participants to invest in Nigeria’s youth and innovation ecosystem. Stakeholders agreed that building a great nation requires collective action, strategic partnerships, and a deliberate focus on equipping young people with the skills and opportunities to lead the country’s transformation.