In response to the growing youth unemployment crisis in Nigeria, the Alliance for Youth Nigeria has made significant strides in empowering young Nigerians with essential vocational skills. The initiative, which was launched in August 2021, recently marked another milestone by reaching 1,331 youths through its comprehensive training programs.
The Alliance, a collaborative effort of organizations like Nestlé Nigeria, Jobberman Nigeria, Big Bottling Company, the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, and U-Connect HR Limited, aims to address the skills gap in the country by providing young people with the tools they need to thrive in today’s job market or to start their own businesses. Supported by the Federal Ministry of Youth, the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, and Activate Success International, the Alliance is on a mission to empower 250,000 young Nigerians with employability and entrepreneurial skills.
This year, the Alliance focused on vocational skills training in four key areas: solar panel installation, graphic design (including social media and web design), CCTV and cable installation, and beauty care, which encompasses makeup, aromatherapy, and massage. These programs were delivered in collaboration with the Whitefield Foundation and have proven to be life-changing for many participants.
One such success story is that of Mustapha Fasasi, a 34-year-old from Oyo State, who had long been interested in solar and renewable energy but lacked the skills to pursue a career in this field. After enrolling in the Alliance’s upskilling program, Mustapha is now on the path to building a successful business in solar energy, armed with the knowledge and skills needed to support his family and contribute to his community.
The training program culminated in the graduation of 372 participants in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in commemoration of International Youth Day 2024. High-achieving graduates were rewarded with start-up kits and capital to help them launch their businesses immediately. For instance, those trained in graphic design received laptops, while graduates of the beauty care program received makeup tool kits and massage beds. Solar installation trainees were also awarded complete toolboxes.
At the event, members of the Alliance for Youth Nigeria encouraged the graduates to pursue their dreams using their newly acquired skills. The program also featured practical demonstrations, showcasing the tangible impact of the training on the participants’ lives.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the initiative, Tumi Onamade, Chief Operating Officer of the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, praised the dedication, creativity, and resilience of the young participants. “As we celebrate International Youth Day and the 3rd Anniversary of the Alliance for Youth, we are reminded of the immense potential within our young people to drive transformative change,” she said.
Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, also emphasized the importance of investing in today’s youth, noting that the 372 graduates of this year’s training join the 805 youths previously trained in technical and vocational skills. He highlighted that Nestlé’s commitment to empowering young people extends beyond this initiative, as the company reaches an average of 25,000 youths annually through its broader Nestlé Needs YOUth platform.
Since its inception, the Alliance for Youth Nigeria has provided vocational training and skill enhancements to 35,499 youths, working in collaboration with various federal platforms and organizations. This ongoing effort is a critical part of the Alliance’s goal to empower 250,000 young people across Nigeria.
As the nation celebrated International Youth Day on August 12, 2024, with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” the Alliance for Youth Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to preparing young people for the challenges of today and equipping them with the skills to lead in a digital-driven future.