Nigerian youths must embrace artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and innovation to build sustainable careers, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy.
The Convener of ScaleUp Lagos and Chief Executive Officer of Kreateng Africa, Adedayo Okunfolami, said this during the grand finale of ScaleUp Lagos 2026.
Okunfolami said the initiative was created to connect entrepreneurs, innovators, technology professionals and career builders with industry leaders, investors and prospective employers.
He explained that the programme was designed to give young Nigerians the knowledge, networks, and opportunities needed to grow their businesses, develop relevant skills, and compete in the global economy.
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The 2026 edition, themed “Building the Future of the Global Economy: marked the 5th anniversary of ScaleUp Lagos, an annual Job Fair and Entrepreneurship event, organised in partnership with Kreateng Africa to promote business growth, innovation, career development and wealth creation.
The Chief Executive Officer of Nuvu Africa, Sola Longe-Okenimkpe, encouraged young Nigerians to use AI tools to improve productivity, boost their businesses and compete effectively in a rapidly changing economy.
“Whatever you are doing, whether it is content creation, finance or making a difference in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector, AI tools can be used to help. AI should not be seen as something that will take people’s jobs, but as an enabling tool. Young people should understand the emerging technology and identify AI tools relevant to their professions, businesses and creative pursuits, he said.
Creative Technologist and Extended Reality Developer at IGH, Gaffar Ibrahim, also said artificial intelligence was unlikely to replace people who were willing to learn, adapt and use the appropriate tools.
“AI cannot take the job of anyone who is leveraging the right tools, working efficiently and ready to evolve. It is a tool that can help you scale what you are already doing,” Ibrahim said.
Nestle’s Country Human Resources Manager, Shakiru Lawal, stressed the importance of equipping Nigerian youths with practical and relevant skills to improve their employability, strengthen their economic capacity and help them attain financial independence.
Lawal identified competence, commitment and character as essential qualities young people must develop to advance in their careers and entrepreneurial journeys.
According to him, technical competence alone may not be sufficient without the discipline, integrity and dedication required to build sustainable careers and enterprises.
The event featured an exhibition where organisations and entrepreneurs showcased products, services and emerging solutions in technology and business.
