Dr. Olasupo Olusi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry (BoI), has reaffirmed his commitment to empowering Nigerian youth through targeted industrialisation strategies. During a keynote address at the launch of the Youth in Development Dialogue organised by LEAP Africa, Dr. Olusi stated that youth-led industrialisation holds the key to solving the country’s unemployment challenge and building a stronger economy.
Young Nigerians, he noted, are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the innovators of today. With the right tools, access to finance, and a supportive policy environment, youth-led enterprises can spark significant industrial growth across the country. Dr. Olusi praised their energy and creativity, saying their passion—when properly supported—can transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape and generate employment opportunities.
The dialogue brought together stakeholders from government, the private sector, and civil society, with a focus on enabling young people to take the lead in economic transformation. Dr. Olusi used the platform to highlight the BoI’s strategic efforts to support youth entrepreneurship. He outlined a variety of youth-focused initiatives, including funding schemes, business development support, and partnerships with innovation hubs.
As part of its broader strategy, BoI is collaborating with both local and international organisations to provide young entrepreneurs with financial literacy training, technical skills, and market access. These efforts aim to tackle youth unemployment and drive sustainable economic growth. According to Dr. Olusi, the future of Nigerian manufacturing and industrial development lies with young innovators who can adapt swiftly to changing global trends.
Calling on Nigerian youths to take ownership of the country’s industrial future, he urged the government and stakeholders to provide platforms for them to lead. The BoI, he emphasized, believes in homegrown solutions and remains committed to investing in young entrepreneurs in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and services. He stressed that youth-led industrialisation is not only about job creation but also about inclusive growth and national economic resilience.
In addition, Dr. Olusi explained that the BoI’s youth-focused agenda is part of a larger vision to position Nigeria as a leading industrial hub in Africa. While acknowledging existing challenges such as limited access to capital, weak infrastructure, and bureaucratic obstacles, he expressed confidence that these can be overcome through strong partnerships, policy reform, and public-private collaboration.
Dr. Olusi concluded by encouraging young people to take full advantage of the opportunities and resources provided by the BoI and its development partners. He expressed optimism that empowered youth will lead the country’s next industrial revolution.
The event drew a large and engaged audience, many of whom welcomed Dr. Olusi’s remarks with enthusiasm. His message was clear and forward-looking, inspiring attendees to believe in a youth-driven future for Nigeria’s economy.
Youth-led industrialisation, championed by Dr. Olasupo Olusi, stood as the event’s central theme and continues to resonate with stakeholders who view investment in young people as the most sustainable route to national progress.
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