NASRDA URGES YOUTH TO EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT

By: Fasasi Hammad
The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and Grassroots Bridge Builders have called for increased investment in technology-driven skills acquisition to equip Nigerian youths for future employment and tackle rising unemployment and social vices.
The appeal was made at the official launch of the NASRDA/Grassroots Bridge Builders Skills Development Project, held at the Women Development Centre in Abuja, which drew a large turnout of young people seeking practical empowerment opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General and CEO of Grassroots Bridge Builders, Engr. Ibrahim Moses Igoche, urged governments at all levels, the private sector, and development partners to intensify support for skills acquisition initiatives, describing youth empowerment as a strategic tool for economic stability and sustainable national development.
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Igoche emphasized that Nigeria’s growing youth population can only be transformed into a productive force through access to relevant, technology-enabled skills aligned with the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
He highlighted that the GBB empowerment platform has successfully engaged many youths in profitable ventures, helping to keep them off the streets and reduce involvement in drug abuse and other social vices.
“Skills acquisition is one of the most powerful tools for changing negative narratives among vulnerable youths while unlocking their potential for national growth,” he said, urging young Nigerians to channel their energy into productive activities.
Igoche also commended government agencies and partners supporting the initiative and paid tribute to NASRDA’s Director-General and CEO, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, describing him as a visionary leader committed to youth empowerment and national transformation.
Represented by the Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr. Felix Ale, Dr. Adepoju said skills acquisition goes beyond job creation, serving as a catalyst for innovation, dignity, and holistic societal development.
He noted that equipping young people with practical, technology-focused skills positions them as active contributors to national progress and drivers of innovation, particularly in science- and technology-related fields.
Dr. Adepoju emphasized that skills development is central to NASRDA’s mandate, particularly in leveraging space-based resources and science-driven solutions to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. He also praised the Grassroots Bridge Builders initiative for its commitment to patriotic youth development and assured continued support for programs that enable young Nigerians to realize their potential.
Highlighting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritizes empowerment, innovation, and inclusive growth, Dr. Adepoju reaffirmed NASRDA’s resolve to implement initiatives aligned with national objectives.
Also addressing the audience, the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohammed Marwa (rtd), represented by NDLEA Secretary Barrister Shedrach Haruna, urged youths to avoid drug-related activities and embrace skills acquisition as a sustainable path to personal and societal development. He described such programs as effective platforms for redirecting youthful energy toward productivity, creativity, and long-term economic relevance.
Participants at the event noted that the initiative reflects a growing consensus among public institutions and civil society groups that technology-driven skills development is essential for building a resilient, innovative, and inclusive Nigerian economy.
