Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, who serves as the Senior Special Advisor to the President on Industrialization at the African Development Bank, advised graduates from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomoso to focus on acquiring digital competencies and fostering entrepreneurial ventures instead of depending solely on employment within the public sector.

During the delivery of the institution’s 17th Convocation Lecture entitled "Can Nigeria Flourish Amidst Turbulent and Swift Technological Transformations?" on Thursday, Oyelaran-Oyeyinka highlighted that over 60 percent of Africa's populace falls within the age group of 15-24 years old. He also pointed out that more than half of this demographic faces unemployment, underemployment, or has withdrawn from economic activity altogether.

Speaking to the graduating class, he stated,

Strive not for an average existence. Instead, become a cornerstone of the nation. As scripture advises, extend your compassion to those who hunger, and use your talents to soothe troubled souls. Only then will your inner light emerge from anonymity.

He encouraged the graduates to see challenges as chances for growth and to take part actively in guiding Africa’s progress.

"I encourage all of you to lead the way in this revolutionary process. View difficulties as chances for growth. As you move forward, keep in mind that you possess the ability to influence the story of Africa’s and Nigeria’s progress. Your concepts, ingenuity, leadership, and dedication to outstanding achievement will drive transformation," he stated.

Citing Anais Nin, he remarked, "Don’t settle for an average existence. Remember what Anais Nin observed: 'Life diminishes or amplifies according to one's bravery.' Aim to distinguish yourself during these chaotic periods. Avoid being akin to those causing devastation across our shared society. Instead, become a constructor of your country, aiding in restoring broken spirits."

He ended his speech with an appeal to the graduating class:

“Congratulations once more, Class of 2025. The future shines brightly and brims with opportunities. Move forward and become the changemakers that Africa and Nigeria require.”

Oyelaran-Oyeyinka highlighted the decreasing availability of government positions and the increasing requirement for entrepreneurial abilities.

"Therefore, you should adjust to the requirements of the digital economy by learning new skills that improve your job prospects and encourage entrepreneurial capabilities. It’s important to integrate university education with competencies such as digital skills," he recommended.

The representative from the African Development Bank specified six key actions Nigeria needs to undertake to prosper in the swiftly changing global economic landscape. These measures encompass safeguarding the economy against external disruptions through diversification beyond reliance on crude oil, enhancing technical capabilities, and fostering the industrialization and contemporary development of agriculture.

He likewise highlighted the crucial role of maintaining internal safety and political steadiness, observing that instability has considerably hindered economic operations, particularly within the farming industry.

Highlighting Nigeria’s strength in agriculture, Oyelaran-Oyeyinka promoted the growth of agribusinesses to access the $10 trillion international food systems market.

He advocated for more financial support towards transforming rural areas, expressing regret over the persistent lack of development in these regions attributed to insufficient infrastructure, restricted educational opportunities, and insufficient land rights.

He additionally urged for innovation and digital literacy as Nigeria moves through the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and highlighted how essential 21st-century skills are in equipping graduates to thrive in a globally competitive market.

On leadership, he remarked,

Leadership with foresight is essential for changing Nigeria's adverse economic course. The detrimental decisions of the upper class have obstructed the nation's advancement.

In a gesture of encouragement, Oyelaran-Oyeyinka presented cash gifts to the best graduating student and five other top-performing graduates in technology-related fields.

The awardees included Komolafe Gbolahan, Abdulrasheed Alao from Chemical Engineering, Oladipo Omoniyi, Oyelade Oluwafikunmi from Computer Engineering, Eniade Stephen from Mechanical Engineering, as well as the top graduating student overall, Adeladun Adeduntan.

At the event, Professor Razaq Kalilu, who serves as the Vice-Chancellor of LAUTECH, praised the convocation lecture for being both timely and perceptive.

"The lecture employs an interrogative approach to underscore the elements responsible for our nation’s challenges and distinctly outlines what Nigeria needs to do to prosper during these volatile times. This represents a commendable endeavor aimed at securing a brighter future for Nigeria, intended to inspire our graduating students to play their part in attaining this objective," he stated.

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