From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari has said his administration is committed to investing in Nigeria’s human resources, especially the youths and the most vulnerable as well as the poorest citizens.
This is even as he reiterated his commitment to creating more jobs, with particular focus on enabling the private sector, targeting more youthful population by streamlining priority on agriculture, arts, entertainment, mining and information technology.
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the president gave the assurance at a parley with the participants of Senior Executive Course 42 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies at the State House.
He said the focus of the group’s research for the year, “Population Growth and Human Capital Development: Challenges and Opportunities,’’ was most appropriate in timing, and the recommendations will be fully considered.
“I have no doubt, you have evaluated the theme given to you. I can assure you many of your recommendations would be considered to further enhance human capital development in the country.
“Let me reiterate that our administration is committed to diligently pursuing investments in people, especially in our youths as well as most vulnerable and poorest members of society. We will study and explore the creative and innovative recommendations in your report and direct implementations as soon as possible,” he said.
Buhari told participants of Senior Executive Course 42 that his administration had made tremendous efforts at diversifying the economy and reducing heavy dependence on the oil sector for government revenues and foreign exchange earnings.
“We are refocusing the economy on agriculture, agro-processing, arts, entertainment, mining, manufacturing, information technology and labour intensive industries to generate millions of jobs for our youths and able-bodied Nigerians, while gradually integrating the economy into the global economy,” he said.