Lagos Govt, experts urge youth to embrace AI for innovation
By Adeola Ogunrinde
The Lagos State Government and experts in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector have urged Nigerian youth to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for solving societal challenges. This call was made during the 2025 Commonwealth Day event, organized by the Tantacom Group and the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) at the University of Lagos, Akoka, on Friday. The event, attended by hundreds of youths and students, was themed “AI, Youth, and the Future of Work.”
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, highlighted how AI is transforming work and redefining productivity and creativity. He described AI as an ally for young people, urging them to see it as a partner rather than a threat in their professional journey.
According to him, AI provides three key advantages that can reshape the future of work. He explained that young innovators can use AI to test and refine their ideas in various fields such as writing, music production, app development, and business strategy. He added that AI is not just about automation but is also creating new job opportunities in fields like AI ethics, machine learning engineering, data science, and AI-assisted design.
Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, also spoke on the role of AI in job creation. He emphasized that the Lagos State Government is committed to supporting young people interested in AI and ensuring they have access to opportunities in the tech-driven economy.
Aregbe dismissed fears that AI would replace traditional jobs, stressing that it is already shaping the present and not just the future. He urged young people to embrace AI and leverage it for innovation and growth, saying, “We in Lagos have things for youth to do. We are ready, and we will continue to support every young person making a difference.”
Co-CEO of Tantacom Group, Mrs. Jennifer Odufuwa, also emphasized the importance of collaboration in the digital age. She described the theme of this year’s Commonwealth Day as a call to “collaborate, innovate, and create a future where no one is left behind.”
The event featured interactive discussions on how AI is revolutionizing industries and opening up new career paths. Participants also explored strategies for integrating AI into education and entrepreneurship to drive economic growth.
With AI rapidly reshaping global industries, the discussions at the event reinforced the importance of equipping young people with the right skills and mindset to harness its potential for societal development.
