Localising Job Creation for Inclusive Growth: Rafiu Olaore’s Call to Action in Washington D.C.

In a dynamic and inspiring session during the World Bank Group and IMF Meetings and Civil Society Policy Forum, Chief Rafiu Akinpelu Olaore, the visionary Founder and Executive Director of Youths Enterprise Development and Innovation Society (YEDIS), captivated a discerning audience that included key Nigerian government officials on October 17, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The panel also boasted prominent figures such as Dr. Nurudeen Abubakar Zauro, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion; Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdulahi, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency; and Dr. Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency.

As the representative for the African Western and Central Regions on the World Bank Group and IMF Civil Society Policy Forum Working Group, Rafiu Olaore warmly welcomed these esteemed officials, passionately addressing the urgent issues surrounding rural prosperity. He articulated a resounding message on the critical importance of grassroots civil society organizations collaborating with the government to close the information gap related to development policies and confront Nigeria’s alarming unemployment crisis. His emphasis on the vital roles of civil societies in job creation struck a chord with everyone present.

Rafiu’s heartfelt appeal called for a united front to forge sustainable job opportunities for underserved youth, igniting hope and potential for the country’s future workforce. His clarion call for synergy was unmistakable: it’s high time to empower the next generation to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

In addition to his stirring keynote address, Rafiu demonstrated his leadership skills by expertly moderating a session titled “Advancing Homegrown Economy through Sustainable Infrastructure and Skills Development in Africa” on October 15, 2025, also in Washington, D.C. His knack for facilitating meaningful dialogue underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

Earlier, on October 14, 2025, Rafiu addressed the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group, commending the Nigerian government’s robust commitment to Skills Development as a means of creating decent jobs. He passionately advocated for the inclusion of grassroots NGOs in the decision-making process, firmly believing that localizing job creation efforts is fundamental to achieving productive outcomes.

Rafiu’s impactful initiatives in job creation have not gone unnoticed. The World Bank Group and the International Financial Corporation (IFC) have celebrated his remarkable work across their websites and social media platforms on 13 October 2025 during the annual meetings.

Moreover, the United Nations is set to feature his groundbreaking policy brief aimed at accelerating social progress at the “Second World Summit for Social Development” in Doha, Qatar, scheduled for November 4 to 6, 2025.

Chief Rafiu Olaore’s steadfast dedication shines as a beacon of hope and progress, not just for Nigeria but for the entire world, illuminating the pathway to a brighter future.