01/08/2026
OUR MESSAGE OF HOPE AT THE RENEWED HOPE STUDENTS LEADERS ENGAGEMENT AND DIGITAL ACCELERATION PROGRAMME FOR THE SOUTH-EAST ZONE. TODAY 31ST OF JULY, 2026.
It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to this historic Renewed Hope Student Leaders' Engagement and Digital Acceleration Programme for the South-East Zone.
Today, we gather not only as student leaders or stakeholders, but as partners in the collective task of building a stronger, more innovative, and prosperous Nigeria.
I am delighted to see student leaders, young innovators, entrepreneurs, academics, and development partners united by a common vision of empowering Nigerian students for the opportunities to improve on our quest to an incline digital age.
Let me begin by conveying the warm greetings and unwavering commitment of His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose Renewed Hope Agenda places young people at the center of national development.
The President firmly believes that Nigeria's greatest asset is not just its natural resources but also the demography of its youthful population.
This conviction continues to inspire policies and programs aimed at equipping students with the skills, opportunities, and platforms needed to thrive in the 21st century.
The South East region has a rich history of excellence in enterprise, competitive innovation, and resilience; across Nigeria and beyond, the ingenuity of the people of this region has contributed immensely to economic growth and technological advancement that culminates in nation-building.
It is therefore fitting that we gather here today to reward students who have proven their intellect and harnessed digital technology to drive transformation within their communities and across the nation.
Distinguished student leaders, political leaders, technocrats, and captains of industry present here, the future belongs to those who possess the knowledge, skills, and courage to adapt to rapid changes in global best practices.
The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed how we learn, work, communicate, and conduct business.
Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, software development, digital marketing, and emerging technologies are creating unprecedented opportunities for young people.
Our responsibility is to ensure that Nigerian students are not mere consumers of technology but creators of solutions, innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will drive the digital ecosystem.
This program has been designed to achieve three critical objectives:
1. To strengthen engagement between the government and student leaders, ensuring that the voices of students are heard and incorporated into policies that affect their future.
2. To expose students to digital opportunities and equip them with practical knowledge that will enhance their employability, productivity, and entrepreneurial capacity.
3. To inspire a new generation of leaders who will leverage technology to solve societal problems, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to national development..
As student leaders, you carry unique responsibilities because leadership is not merely a title; it is a commitment to service, integrity, accountability, and positive impact.
The future of our campuses and our nation depends on your ability to inspire, unite, promote peaceful coexistence, and champion innovative solutions to the challenges facing young people.
I encourage you to take full advantage of the sessions, engagement, and networking opportunities available during this program.
Ask questions, share ideas, build relationships, and, most importantly, develop actionable plans that will create lasting value within your institutions and communities.
As the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students' Engagement, we remain committed to fostering meaningful dialogue between the government and students.
We will continue to advocate for policies and programs that promote educational development, digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and national cohesion.
Let me also express my sincere appreciation to all our partners, facilitators, speakers, and stakeholders whose support has made this program possible. Your dedication to the growth and empowerment of Nigerian students is highly commendable.
To every student here today, I say bravo! I want to encourage you to believe in yourselves, embrace innovation, acquire relevant digital skills, and never underestimate your capacity to make a difference. The future of Nigeria is being shaped today, and each of you has a vital role to play in that journey.
Together, let us build a generation of digitally empowered leaders who will drive innovation, promote excellence, and contribute to the realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Thank you for your attention, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Comrade Sunday Asefon Daya,
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students' Engagement.
