Youths in the country have been called upon to make use of their time on informative articles and educational videos, that are capable of offering tangible solutions to real-world problems, rather than wasting their them on frivolities.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat gave the admonition today at the Y2024 International Youth Day Celebration, with the theme: “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development” held at Regency Event Hall, Ikeja, urging them to be more focused.
According to Hamzat, “We should stop wasting our time, and our lives on frivolities and focus on practical things. My advice is always to get a book, find out why the author wrote it, and apply it. I encourage you to always read well-equipped books that can be useful to you and read books that will change your life for the better as reading books will keep you informed and more educated”.
The Deputy Governor highlighted that the conventional education system, limited to classroom learning, no longer provides the comprehensive preparation required for individuals to thrive and make a positive difference in a world increasingly shaped by technological advancements.
He added that they should not just be on the internet for TikTok videos, Instagram reels, among others, but they should study the right things that will be beneficial to them.
Furthermore, Dr. Hamzat admonished the youth to expand their horizons beyond the theoretical foundations taught in the classroom, by embracing the vast opportunities available in the digital technology landscape, which is increasingly becoming the dominant force shaping the future of the world.
Speaking further, the Deputy Governor emphasised that digitalisation is a three-pronged concept that encompasses people, processes, and technology. He added that young individuals should harness the power of digitalisation to drive personal growth, state development, and national progress, recognising its transformative potential to shape a brighter future.
He pointed out that today’s digital world offers a vast array of opportunities that can equip individuals, particularly the youths with the tools and resources needed to tackle the complex problems plaguing the nation and the world at large and create positive change.
“What is important is that technology is becoming a global village that gives people the opportunity to drive change in the development and growth of the country.
The people who find the answers to digitalisation and technological advancement will be successful”, Hamzat said.
He added that youth should provide value to people’s lives by using their brains to make money, stressing that ‘yahoo yahoo’ is time-wasting, the biggest people in the world make their money not through fraud but by using their brains to do the right things.
In his goodwill message, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro stated that the world is experiencing tremendous transformation due to improved technologies, and the youth are at the forefront of this digital revolution, developing innovative solutions and driving progress.
Mr. Agoro added that the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting and nurturing the digital aspirations of youth, prioritising initiatives that enhance digital literacy, provide access to technology, and foster a thriving environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
He urged the youth to utilise their creative potential, energy, and passion to create digital solutions that guarantee the actualisation of Sustainable Development Goals that aid in building a better world for all.
In his address, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende noted that the State Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment where the youth can thrive in today’s digital age, adding that technology is reshaping every aspect of lives, the youth are at the forefront of digital revolution.
“From social media platforms to innovative tech solutions, young people are harnessing the power of digital tools to drive change, create opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable development of our society”, he said.
He noted that through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and investments in digital literacy, the state government is ensuring that young people have the tools and resources they need to succeed in their endeavours.
Earlier In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary for Youth and Social Development, Pharm. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu stated that the Ministry is committed to fostering digital literacy, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating spaces for the youth to engage and grow.
“We believe that by equipping our youth with digital skills and fostering an environment that encourages innovation, we are not only investing in the future but also the future of our state and our nation, Nigeria”, she stated
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