Adedokun Oduyemi Advises the Federal Government to Rechannel Nigeria’s Youth to Curb Cybercrime
Mr. Adedokun Oduyemi, the CEO and Head of Fort Soft Systems, NIIT Lagos, has urged the Federal Government to
rechannel the energy and creativity of Nigerian youths in order to reduce the rising rate of cybercrime.
In an exclusive Hi-Tech interview, he stressed that Nigeria must take full advantage of the opportunities in the ICT sector.
He explained that today’s youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but the very foundation on which Nigeria’s future stands.
Youths Hold the Key to Nigeria’s Future
Oduyemi emphasized that Nigeria’s progress begins with its young people.
According to him, empowering youths with strong ICT skills will help them compete globally.
He noted that the modern world requires preparedness, and when opportunity meets preparation, success follows.
Therefore, NIIT focuses on helping young people acquire digital skills that guarantee meaningful careers.
He added that youths must be equipped to succeed anywhere in the world.
Because the world is now a global village, Nigerian youths constantly compete with young people from advanced countries.
For this reason, NIIT continues to train and guide them toward productive careers.
Government Must Strengthen Youth Empowerment Programs
When asked whether youth empowerment efforts are enough, Oduyemi explained that some companies genuinely invest in youth development, especially through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
However, he believes the government must draw clear lines, set standards, and define expectations before inviting private companies to participate.
He highlighted Lagos State’s “Adopt a School” program as a good example but insisted that the government should take the lead in setting development parameters.
Rechanneling Youth Capabilities to Reduce Cybercrime
While addressing the alarming rise in cybercrime, Oduyemi stated that the real solution lies in redirecting youth potential.
He explained that many young people turn to online fraud because of unemployment and limited opportunities.
Nevertheless, when given the right training, youths can develop legitimate digital skills that earn them far more than cybercrime ever could.
He cited examples of Nigerian youths now building apps for Android and Apple platforms.
These youths, he said, earn significant income by using their skills creatively and ethically.
NIIT, alongside other organizations, has repeatedly partnered with local governments to provide ICT training.
A notable example is the recent initiative in Amuwo Local Government, where 200 youths were trained and empowered to train others.
Education and ICT Development Still Need Improvement
Oduyemi argued that Nigeria is still far behind in leveraging ICT in education.
He said many schools lack equipment, and some university curricula remain outdated.
Since ICT drives global innovation—from healthcare to genetics and modern transportation—Nigeria must redesign its curriculum to prepare students for the future.
"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."
The Need to Invest in STEM for National Growth
He also pointed out that many youths avoid ICT careers because of the misconception that it is difficult or too expensive.
To change this, Nigeria must heavily invest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) from the primary school level.
He noted that global ICT leaders like China, South Africa, and India succeeded because they invested in STEM decades ago.
Today, they are reaping the benefits through strong, innovative ICT industries.
Ultimately, Oduyemi believes that with deliberate investment, strategic youth empowerment, and strong education reforms,
Nigeria can transform its ICT sector and drastically reduce cybercrime by channeling youthful energy toward productive and profitable digital careers.
