NSITF Boss Advocates for Youth Empowerment Over Oil Wealth

Oluwaseun Faley, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), stated that Nigeria's future lies in its youth rather than its oil wealth. Speaking at the 2026 Student Mentorship Summit organized by the National Association of Nigerian Students in Abuja, he highlighted that while Nigeria has the largest youth population globally, with 60% of its citizens under 25, the country must invest in mentorship and skill development to fully harness this demographic advantage.

Faley stressed that potential alone is insufficient without deliberate investment and support systems to empower young people to become job creators and problem solvers. He called for a multi-sector approach to youth development, integrating education, technology, and industry.

Faley also emphasized the importance of social protection systems in stabilizing the workforce and ensuring decent work standards. The summit, which attracted policymakers and industry leaders, aimed to bridge the gap in opportunities for Nigerian youth and promote innovative growth and leadership.