President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria’s future depends more on practical skills and innovation than just academic certificates, as he urges young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship and vocational training.

According to cbinews.tv, President Bola Tinubu has called for stronger investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), stressing that skills acquisition is key to rebuilding Nigeria’s economy and empowering young people.

Tinubu made the statement during the combined convocation ceremony and 70th anniversary celebration of Kaduna Polytechnic held in Kaduna on Saturday.

Represented by the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, the president said the days when certificates alone guaranteed success are gone. He encouraged graduates to focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical skills to remain competitive in today’s fast-changing global economy.

The president also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving educational institutions and creating more opportunities for young Nigerians through initiatives that promote learning, enterprise, and innovation.

Tinubu highlighted programmes such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Students’ Venture Initiative as part of efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at promoting self-reliance among youths.

He further urged the management of Kaduna Polytechnic to take advantage of digital opportunities to improve learning standards and boost the institution’s global competitiveness.

Speaking at the event, Uba Sani reiterated his administration’s dedication to education and skills development. He announced plans to construct a modern theatre and access roads across the institution’s campuses, while also donating N50 million towards the convocation ceremony.

Sani also commissioned a new lecture theatre complex and appealed to alumni, private organisations, and Nigerians to continue supporting educational development across the country.

Earlier, the Rector of Kaduna Polytechnic, Suleiman Umar, said the institution remains committed to producing graduates who can create jobs and solve societal problems, rather than relying solely on white-collar employment.

He revealed that the institution graduated 60,803 students between the 2015/2016 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.

Also speaking, Governing Council Chairman Oluwakemi Pinheiro encouraged graduates to prioritise value creation and entrepreneurship. He also announced scholarships for 152 students from his personal allowances.

Meanwhile, the institution’s Registrar, Muhammad Tanimu, announced fellowship awards for notable Nigerians, including Education Minister Tunji Alausa, Hadiza Bala Usman, Governor Uba Sani, and the Emir of Zazzau, Nuhu Bamalli.

Responding on behalf of the award recipients, the Emir of Zazzau thanked the institution for the honour and advised graduates to remain disciplined while upholding the values of Kaduna Polytechnic.

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