THE MANAGING Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), has called for increased investment in youth development and social protection.
Faleye, who was represented by his Technical Assistant, Dr Dayo Alao, made the call at the Students Mentorship Summit 2026, organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Abuja on Thursday.
He described Nigerian youths as the nation’s greatest asset, noting that their potential must be nurtured through deliberate policies and programmes.
“Nigeria’s greatest asset is not oil or infrastructure, but its youth, who are energetic, innovative and full of potential.
“Potential alone is not enough; there is a need to guide, support and protect young people to enable them achieve their goals.
“Equipping youths with the right skills and opportunities will empower them to lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
According to him, empowering youths with skills, support and opportunities is critical to achieving sustainable national development.
Faleye said there was need to shift youth orientation from dependency to self-reliance, urging them to become job creators rather than job seekers.
He emphasised the importance of innovation, leadership and productivity among young people in driving economic growth.
The NSITF boss said social protection remained a key driver of workforce resilience and national prosperity.
He explained that the fund was committed to providing safety nets that support workers, entrepreneurs and promote decent work standards.
Faleye also stressed the need for a proactive, multi-sector approach to youth empowerment and mentorship.
He said the future of the country must be deliberately built through strategic investment in young people.
Earlier, the National Publicity Secretary of NANS, Mr Samson Ajasa, said the summit aimed to bridge the gap between youths and opportunities.
Ajasa said the initiative was designed to expose students to mentorship and innovation across key sectors. (NAN)
