Abuja, Nigeria – The Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) has called on the Federal Government to prioritize youth inclusion, equitable digital infrastructure, and proactive investment in emerging technologies as part of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020–2030.
Speaking at the Multi-Stakeholder Engagement held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, AbdulHakeem AbdulKareem Ibrahim, Research Lead of BBYDI, presented the organization’s official input as one of the five invited presenters at the high-level policy dialogue.
In its submission, BBYDI applauded the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy for developing a bold roadmap to transform Nigeria’s digital landscape. The organization, however, stressed the urgent need for youth-centered digital literacy programs, inclusive infrastructure development, and targeted support for young tech entrepreneurs.
“Young Nigerians are not just the future—they are the present of our digital economy. We must equip them with the right skills, tools, and opportunities to lead innovation,” AbdulKareem said during his presentation.
BBYDI also urged the government to go beyond catching up with global trends and instead start proactively preparing for future technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, quantum computing, and biotechnology.
“We strongly believe Nigeria must begin to position itself as a leader—not just a follower—in the global digital economy. Our policies must be future-ready,” he added.
Among BBYDI’s key recommendations were:
- Expansion of digital innovation hubs across all geopolitical zones.
- Inclusion of digital education in Nigeria’s school curriculum.
- Creation of a Youth Digital Council for policy monitoring and feedback.
- Establishment of a dedicated fund for youth-led digital startups.
The organization concluded by thanking the Ministry for the platform to contribute to the NDEPS and expressed readiness to support its implementation once assented to by the President.
“We are honored to have been invited as one of the five presenting organizations. BBYDI looks forward to further collaboration with government and stakeholders to ensure that the vision of a digital Nigeria becomes a lived reality for all,” AbdulKareem said.
The engagement marks a significant milestone in the development of the NDEPS, which aims to reposition Nigeria’s economy through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, innovation, and inclusion.
