As Nigeria prepares for a new era in its democratic experience with the election of a new president, the composition of the new executive’s cabinet becomes a topic of great importance. It is widely acknowledged that placing the right people in the right positions at this crucial time in the country’s history is what will take Nigeria out of the present near economic stagnation.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the inclusion of young professionals in key decision-making positions is vital to bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and dynamic energy to any government. Funmi Ayinke Adekojo, an exemplary young professional who has risen like a colossus in her field of Engineering, represents a new generation of forward-thinking individuals who are well-versed in emerging technologies, global trends, and best practices.
As a country with a technologically driven and tech obsessed youth population, Nigeria has hundreds of fertile human oil wells waiting to be explored. Among these emerging leaders is Funmi Ayinke, who just turned 40 years old. She is a young professional who has not only succeeded as one of the best in her profession but has also excelled in social engineering, impacting on her generation, building youths for purposeful contributions to their society, using her diverse talents and resources to empower and take them off the streets.
In a country where the youths form about 63% of the population, they remain a significant majority, and their concerns, aspirations, and perspectives must be adequately represented in government. Young professionals like Funmi Ayinke can ensure that the voices of Nigeria’s youth are heard and considered in policy formulation and decision-making processes. Their firsthand experiences and understanding of the challenges faced by their generation can lead to policies that address unemployment, education, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, thus fostering development and social harmony.
Funmi Ayinke’s entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of FunmiAyinke Nigeria Limited, a company that specializes in engineering, construction, and procurement. Under her leadership, the company has grown to become a major player in the Nigerian construction industry, handling numerous high-profile projects and providing employment opportunities for many Nigerians. Her company’s commitment to quality and excellence has earned it the ISO 9001:2015 certification, a testament to its adherence to international standards.
Funmi Ayinke’s success in the business world has not gone unnoticed by her engineering constituency. She has received several awards and recognitions for her entrepreneurial prowess, including the prestigious African Women Industrialist Award, Africa’s Best Rated Engineer, and many others.
It is general knowledge that young professionals often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that can help tackle age-old problems with creative solutions. Funmi Ayinke represents a new generation of forward-thinking individuals who are well-versed in emerging technologies, global trends, and best practices. By incorporating their expertise in his cabinet, the president-elect, a man known for discovering great talents in their budding years, can harness their knowledge and insights to shape policies that embrace technological advancements, digital transformation, and sustainable development, propelling Nigeria towards a more prosperous future.
Notably, Nigeria’s economy requires diversification and increased private sector participation to foster sustainable growth and reduce reliance on oil revenue. Young professionals who have demonstrated entrepreneurial acumen can play a pivotal role in driving economic growth through innovative startups, attracting foreign investments, and creating jobs. Their ability to identify untapped opportunities, streamline bureaucratic processes, and foster public-private partnerships can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic transformation and wealth creation.
Social progress, economic competitiveness, and good governance are majorly what Nigerians believe Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu would deliver among others. Not since the emergence of President Olusegun Obasanjo as Nigeria’s president have Nigerians been so optimistic.
Therefore, Nigeria’s new president needs a bubbling environment of vibrant young professionals help to bring a deep understanding of technology and its potential to revolutionize governance, service delivery, and citizen engagement. By having individuals like Funmi Ayinke in government, the new administration can ensure the effective implementation of it’s policies via smart solutions.
Appointing young professionals to the cabinet not only bridges the generational divide but also creates a harmonious synergy between experienced policymakers and emerging leaders. With a young achiever like Funmi Ayinke Adekojo and others like her, the new government would have proven that it is ready to blend the wisdom and experience of seasoned politicians with the energy, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas of the younger generation, a collaboration that fosters a balanced decision-making process which will take into account the diverse needs and perspectives of all Nigerians, regardless of age or background.
Emphatically speaking, it must be highlighted that multi-faceted Funmi Ayinke, in addition to her business acumen, deviated into music as an avenue to reach out to the youths. Her zestful energy and dedication to building society has today seen her as a talented musical star. However, she continues to explore music as a vehicle to make lasting societal change and not for profit. Rather than taking, she keeps giving, churning out inspirational songs and ensuring they reach her audience via her very expansive social media outreach.
Funmi Ayinke Adekojo’s commitment to giving back to society is limitless. She is the founder of the Funmi Ayinke Humanity Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to the less privileged in Nigeria. Through this foundation, she has touched the lives of countless individuals by providing scholarships, healthcare services, and empowerment programs. One of the Funmi Ayinke Foundation’s most notable initiatives is the annual Funmi Ayinke Humanity Foundation Scholarship Scheme, which offers scholarships to deserving students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria. This initiative has helped many young Nigerians achieve their educational dreams and secure a brighter future.
It is worth mentioning that in the service year 2022, Funmi Ayinke had 17 graduates sponsored by her foundation at the NYSC camp.
Indeed, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where it needs visionary leadership with a dynamic cabinet to navigate the complexities of the modern world. There is no doubt that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (President Elect) is tested and trusted, nevertheless, the inclusion of young professionals like Funmi Ayinke in the president-elect’s cabinet would signify a transparent commitment to empowering the youths and moving with the times, by harnessing their talent, expertise, and fresh perspectives. In adopting such a dynamic integration, Nigeria can unlock its true potential, positioning itself as a leading force in Africa and the global community.
It is imperative that the president-elect recognizes the value of young professionals like Funmi Ayinke and offer them the opportunity to shape a brighter future for Nigeria.
The very modest, unassuming but extraordinary Funmi Ayinke may not even be aware of it but Nigeria needs her now.
Hearty Congratulations to the President -elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man who has brought renewed hope to Nigerians. We believe he will deliver his promise of a new Nigeria and we pray that God guides and empowers him with wisdom, good health and courage in his extolled position as he continues to build our country’s youths and grow them into greater men and women who will serve their country in crucial and greater capacities.
