The Federal Government and the World Bank are working to stimulate the private sector’s investments in digital infrastructure to create high-quality jobs for young Nigerians, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has said.
The minister who spoke on the sidelines of the just concluded World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings, in Washington D.C., said a key component of the partnership included rollout of digital infrastructure to support Nigeria’s growing youth population.
He explained that the collaboration between the Federal Government and the World Bank signaled a unified commitment to tackling unemployment, fostering inclusive prosperity, and building a digital-ready workforce equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the modern economy.
“The idea is to empower our young people with access to the internet, data, and fibre-optic networks. This digital infrastructure will enable them to offer services online, retain talent within our borders, and actively contribute to the digital economy,” Edun said.
Speaking after the conclusion of the Development Committee Meeting, Edun said that the World Bank’s Governors — who are Finance Ministers of member countries — have collectively agreed to prioritise employment generation as a central pillar of development.
He said the agenda aligned seamlessly with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places job creation at the core of economic revitalisation efforts.
According to him, the agenda centres on the critical role of multilateral financial institutions — particularly the World Bank — in shaping global development priorities.
He added that efforts to create sustainable jobs and stimulate inclusive economic growth would receive greater attention.
Edun emphasised that the Tinubu administration is committed to unlocking private capital to stimulate productivity, attract both local and foreign investment, and accelerate job creation across sectors.
He pointed out that job creation remains the most effective route to reducing poverty and inequality.
“Creating good quality jobs is essential to addressing poverty. It is central to the President’s vision — stabilising the economy, encouraging private investment, and ensuring that our youth have opportunities at home, rather than seeking them abroad,” Edun said.
