A report commissioned by the British Council says Nigeria could reap an enormous economic dividend in the next 20 years if it creates opportunities for its young people – but faces a social, economic and security disaster if it fails.
Abuja, Nigeria (1 September): The Next Generation Nigeria report, launched today, explores Nigeria’s future at a time of rapid economic, demographic and social change. It has been compiled by an independent task force, convened by the British Council as part of its work to provide opportunities for young people around the world. The study was led by the Harvard School of Public Health.
The report states that Nigeria stands on the threshold of what could be the greatest transformation in its history – with population growth slowing, and its ‘baby boom’ generation entering the workforce. By 2030, it will be one of the few countries in the world with young workers in plentiful supply.
The benefits of this to Nigeria are clear, according to the report: If the country continues with recent economic growth, improves education and health standards, and creates jobs, the average Nigerian could be 3 times richer by 2030 – and over 30 million people will be lifted out of poverty.
But the risks are as great as the opportunities: If Nigeria fails to plan for its next generation, it faces ethnic and religious conflict and radicalization, as a result of growing numbers of young people frustrated by a lack of jobs and opportunities. Nigeria needs to create 25 million jobs over the next ten years – and move its focus away from oil, which contributes 40% to national GDP, but only employs 0.15% of the population.
David Bloom, Professor of Economics and Demography at the Harvard School of Public Health, who chaired the task force, said: “Nigeria is at a crossroads: one path offers a huge demographic dividend, with tremendous opportunity for widespread economic and human progress, while the other path leaves Nigeria descending into quicksand. Nigeria’s most important asset is its young people – more important than oil. History has proven young adults to be a powerful agent of beneficial change, especially if they are healthy and educated, with decent job prospects.”
Vernon Ellis, British Council Chair, who will speak at the launch of the report in Abuja, said: “There can be no doubt that a stable, economically successful Nigeria is in the interests of the UK, the US and the wider world far more than a Nigeria plagued by conflict and radicalization. By 2050, Nigeria will be the fifth most populous country in the world – and we hope this report will contribute to Nigeria’s efforts to harness that growing population as a force for good, rather than a disruptive force. The British Council already works extensively on the ground in Nigeria – especially in Education – and we are ready to provide whatever support is necessary.”
The task force includes several prominent Nigerians – including Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director of the World Bank and former Nigerian finance and foreign minister. As part of the research, young people across the country were asked for their views in a series of debates, and in an online questionnaire.
One young Nigerian who contributed to the consultation said: “Once the youth realize the urgency of the situation with regards to their futures, I think a mass movement will ensue. Then and only then can change be effected in Nigeria.”
The British Council’s operation in Nigeria is its largest in Sub-Saharan Africa. Its examinations work – which generates almost $5 million a year - is a crucial element, providing school and professional qualifications for Nigerians. The organization also helps Nigerians to study overseas – and works on contracts to improve security, justice and economic growth in Nigeria.
The report is the third Next Generation report to be commissioned by the British Council – with the aim to spark debate about the needs of young people, and help governments develop policies to harness their potential. Similar studies looking at the prospects for young people in Pakistan and Bangladesh have been published over the past 12 months.
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CONTACT: For more information, please contact Samantha Yale at (202) 588 – 7838 or samantha.yale@britishcouncil.org.
Notes to Editors:
• The report has been compiled by an independent Task Force – and the British Council does not necessarily agree with or endorse the views expressed.
• Previous Next Generation reports from the British Council are available online:
• Pakistan: http://www.britishcouncil.org/pakistan-next-generation-report-download.htm
• Bangladesh: http://issuu.com/nextgeneration/docs/next_generation_report
About the British Council: The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international non-profit organization for cultural relations and education opportunities. Working in over 100 countries, we build engagement and trust for the UK through the exchange of knowledge and ideas between people worldwide. In the US, we cultivate long-term links between the UK and US, re-energizing the strategic transatlantic relationship through the arts, education and young leadership networks.
The United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland)
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