The Lagos State Government has charged young people to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a vital tool for enhancing creativity, innovation, and economic growth. This call was made during the 2025 Commonwealth Day celebration held at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, with the theme “AI, Youth and The Future.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, emphasized the government’s readiness to support youths engaging in AI-driven initiatives. He noted that AI, far from being a threat, presents vast opportunities for job creation and entrepreneurship.
Aregbe reflected on technological transitions of the past, drawing parallels with the evolution of photography from analog to digital.
“During the photography test phase of the world, some photographers thought the shift from analog to digital would be a problem. But what do we see today? More photographers and more opportunities. The same applies to AI. It is not just the future—it is here and now. We need to tap into it and take advantage of what AI offers,” he said.
He reassured young people of Lagos State’s commitment to empowering them through technology:
“We are ready and will continue to support every young person out there making a difference,” he added.
The event drew participation from over 150 students across higher institutions, including UNILAG and Yaba College of Technology, and highlighted how AI can be a transformative force in education, entrepreneurship, and creative industries.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Olufunke Adu, Co-CEO of Tantacom, urged attendees to see AI as an ally rather than an obstacle:
“AI should not be seen as a threat but as a partner to help unlock greater opportunities. It can speed up creative processes—whether in writing, music, app development, or business strategy,” she said, encouraging youths to leverage AI to build businesses and sharpen their skills.
Also speaking, Mrs. Jennifer Odufuwa, Co-CEO of Tantacom, in her closing remarks, encouraged participants to apply what they had learned to create wealth and impact:
“Today wasn’t just about another event or set of speeches. It was about real conversations, real connections, and real opportunities. We unpacked AI—not as a distant concept but as a force shaping industries and creating jobs now,” she said.
One of the participants, Seun Olorunfemi, a student from UNILAG, described the program as impactful and expressed gratitude to the organizers for such a timely and insightful event.
The celebration aligns with the Commonwealth’s focus on youth empowerment, with over 56 member countries engaging in similar conversations around AI and the future of work.
Disclaimer
Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of Vanguard newspapers or any employee thereof.