The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abbas has described young African entrepreneurs and professionals as critical drivers of innovation, job creation, and economic resilience.
Speaker Abbas stressed hat their passion and willingness to take risks will continue to expand opportunities across sectors.
He stated this at the CEOs Network Awards Gala and Cocktail Night, organised by CEOs Network Africa at the National Assembly.
“It is inspiring to acknowledge that young entrepreneurs and professionals remain central to innovation, job creation, and economic resilience. Nigeria’s, and indeed, Africa’s future prosperity depends in large measure on how well this group is supported, guided, and empowered,” he said.
According to the Speaker, the event provided a platform to examine some of the most pressing challenges facing Africa, particularly the quality of leadership shaping enterprise, governance, and development across the continent.
He noted that the gathering not only celebrates leaders working towards a stronger and more adaptable Africa, but also serves as a networking hub that brings together people and resources to foster a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Speaker Abbas said the urgency of the forum lies in its focus on building a strong community of young professionals capable of advancing Africa’s vision for a united, resilient, and prosperous continent, especially at a time of global economic uncertainty.
“Our only chance lies in establishing a continent-wide single economy that will expand our market, making it highly attractive and increasing direct foreign investment,” he said.
While reaffirming the House’s commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive economic participation, the Speaker stressed that laws encouraging enterprise and removing barriers to opportunity remain vital to national progress.
Speaker Abbas said; “The 10th House is committed to building a policy environment that protects enterprise, rewards innovation, and gives young Nigerians the confidence to invest their talent and resources in the future of this country… Legislative action would continue to focus on fairness, access, and growth.”
He further stated that the House remains determined to strengthen institutions, promote accountability, and ensure that economic growth is driven by laws that are just, inclusive, and responsive to the aspirations of the next generation.
Speaker Abbas also commended CEOs Network Africa for emerging as a significant force in national and continental development over the past seven years through its consistent promotion of leadership, entrepreneurship, and ethical standards.
Speaker Abbas said the organisation’s programmes align with the eight-point Legislative Agenda of the 10th House, particularly in the areas of economic growth, youth engagement, institutional strengthening, and inclusive governance.
“The House places high value on platforms that prepare citizens to contribute meaningfully to national progress, and the work of this Network speaks directly to those priorities through practical engagement and capacity building,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Alhaji Jibrin Baba Ndace, described CEOs Network Africa as “a source of national pride, noting that the organisation proves that “a lot is possible in Nigeria.”
While congratulating the Network for its consistency, Ndace urged young entrepreneurs to prioritise mentorship.
“Mentorship is key. Even when you have ideas, you must have serious mentorship… it’s not enough to be intelligent; it’s not enough to have intellectual capacity; you must nurture relationships with people,” he said.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku challenged young entrepreneurs to live lives of legacy.
He said; “It is not enough for us to feel excited; it is important for us to live a life of legacy,” he said, urging participants to commit to initiatives that positively impact humanity.”
Dr. Neliaku also dismissed negative international perceptions of Nigeria, insisting the country compares favourably with many others globally.
“Nigeria is not as bad as the narratives that the international community wants to make us believe… The only difference is that they know how to manage their challenges,” he said.
In his remarks, the founder of CEOs Network Africa, Mr. Alli-Bob Cinwon, said the organisation began eight years ago as a small idea-sharing group and has since grown to over 20,000 young entrepreneurs across Africa.
He disclosed that the Network has hosted seven award gala nights, 15 power networking events, and trained over 200 young people through its entrepreneurship and leadership master classes.
“This dream just started with young people that had zeal, courage, and were committed to the cause,” he said, thanking supporters for their continued backing.