WATCH THE VIDEO HERE African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina believes Africa’s youthful population is a demographic asset waiting to be tapped. With over 465 million young people between 15 and 35, Adesina urges investment in human capital development and financing to turn this demographic into an economic advantage. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Adesina lamented the “Japa” syndrome, where young Nigerians migrate abroad, calling it a significant loss for the continent. He emphasised that young people don’t need handouts or empowerment programs but rather capital to fund their business ideas and create lasting wealth. “We have over 465 million young people between the ages of 15 and 35,” Adesina said. “Africa should not turn what should be its demographic asset into somebody else’s problem due to the inability to believe in young people and invest in their ideas for continental prosperity.” Adesina recommends that Africa should focus on building consumption as part of its gross domestic product to mitigate the impact of rising tariffs. He stressed that the future of Africa’s young people lies in Africa, not abroad, and that the continent must invest in its youth to reap the benefits of its demographic dividend.
Africa’s youth bulge can be economic asset with right investment – AfDB President
