Youths
At Youth Annual Conference, Leaders Admonish Youth To Embrace Vocational Skills, Say AI Will Not Replace Crafts
By Shakirudeen Bankole
Nigerian youths have been urged to embrace vocational skills acquisition as the best strategic measure against hunger, starvation, and poverty.
At the just-concluded one-week-long 2025 Annual Youth Conference of the
Mountain of Life, Mount Zion, hosted by the Lagos Province Youths of the Eternal Sacred of the Morning Stars and St Michael Star, in Lagos over the weekend,, facilitators said University Degrees are no more enough guarantee for economic sustenance.
Hair Styling session.
The facilitators and stakeholders, expressed the admonition during the graduation ceremony of vocational skills trainees, as part of the main activities lading to the convergence.
They told journalists that the ongoing national campaign for Vocational Skills Acquisition as an alternative to economic relief can not be overemphasized.
The theme of the conference is: ” Ignite the Fire, Living Boldly for Christ.”
Shoe Making Session
They say skills such as Tailoring, Baking, Shoemaking, Tye and Dye, Electrical and Electronics, Buying and Selling, and Sales, among others, are tied to tied to essential needs for human existence and can never be replaced by the ongoing Artificial Intelligence Revolution.
Speaking with newsmen, the Convener of the skill acquisitions programme, Hon..Doyin Diya Odusanya, a Special Assistant to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Eaq, said they have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with some financial institutions to secure Takeoff Grants for the trainees who have satisfactorily completed the programme.
ICT session
According to him, the trained was planned for 1000 Nigerian youths – Muslim, Christians and even those that profess the traditional religion.
He said 500 people, mostly those who have recently completed their SSCE, Jamb and awaiting University admission, were those who took advantage of the programme.
“So, in total, we have trained 500 youths on various vocational skills in the last few weeks. Some of them would access funds to continue the training and even start up their businesses, even while the training has officially winded down.
“The intervention is consistent with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms agenda and the priority of creation of 2 million jobs before the end of his tenure.
“We have a strong conviction that the ongoing skill acquisition campaign is the most reliable channel to take us to this destination of economic self-reliance and prosperity. More so because ‘Work is the antidote of poverty. As we create more jobs, we resolve unemployment crises and as well as the social vices that comes with it,” he said.
Also speaking to newsmen at the event, were the trios of Pa Joseph Olatunji Adenoiki, the Baba Aladura of the Morning Star and St Michael Star , Mountain of Life, Mount Zion; Most Apostle General Paul Ojuyah, the Minister-in-charge of the Festac Branch of the Church, which hosted the conference; and Mr Austin Falowo, Head, Debt Management and Enforcement Department, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Lagos Mainland East Office.
A registered Civil Engineer by profession, with track record of involvement in almost all the national road infrastructure development projects across the country, Pa Joseph, a 94-year-old, said there is no other sustainable solutions to unemployment challenge in the country than skills and personal integrity.
“Just as much as we are advocating for skills, Personal Integrity is also very important. This is probably even more important than skills.. The lack of it puts trust in jeopardy and absence of trust truncates confidence and brings about an atmosphere of doubts..Nigerian political ruling class are leading in this unenviable position due to their inconceivable acts of corruption, abuse of power, and act of impunity. The professionals, especially the local one also need to up their games. Let me not say more than that,” the Septuagenarian, said.
For Most Apostle Ojuyah, University and Polytechnic Curriculums should take entrepreneurial development more seriously than theoretical learning.
“This is because knowledge will ultimately be measured by the number of tangible problems it can solve. And that is what translate to money, not how much theories and construct students can recall or cite.
“I advise the youth to also chose course of studies that aims at creating job not those that would further saturate the unemployment market. The truth is that the government can not do everything. We need to help ourselves also,” he added.
Electrical Training session
For Falowo of the FIRS, accepting the offer as one of the facilitators st the conference was because of his personal conviction on the importance of skill acquisition as a stopgap for the prevalent economic crises in the country.
He reiterated that the youths are the future of the country, and the church stands as a vehicle through which knowledge transfer from the experiences of the older generations to the younger generations is made possible.
According to him, due to the biting economic realities in the country, it has become crystal clear that ‘knowledge is power, as the Bible’s saying has reinforced that ‘ My people perished because of lack of knowledge.
“Interestingly, on my way here, I was talking to one of my brothers that came with me that Artificial Intelligence is not going to takeover hand crafts as they are. The jobs of Electricians, Shoemakers, Tailors, Beauticians, and other varieties of skills on display here. We have Cakes and Pastries Bakers here. We have Popcorn Makers here. AI is not going to do all of these things. And these things are tied to essential needs. Wether we have money or not, we must eat. We must wear clothes. We must wear shoes. We must lit our homes. We must barb and plate our hairs,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Akinode Feyisara, an undergraduate student of Yaba Tech, said the reason why she chose Tye and Dye was because of her desire to add additional skills to her Fashion Designing Craft.
“In this economy, we know the skill acquisition is the surest way of making money and live above poverty. This is my biggest motivation,” she told our reporter.
The resounding message from the conference aligns with a broader national push for youth empowerment through practical skills. As Nigeria grapples with high unemployment rates and the effects of a fast-changing global economy, initiatives like these offer a glimpse of hope for thousands of young Nigerians.
Ondo State is set to host representatives from across Africa as the African Youth Development Parliament (AYDP) announces its decision to honour twelve distinguished Nigerians for their leadership, innovation, and impact.
The honourees include religious leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and security officials who have significantly contributed to community growth, youth development, and peacebuilding in Nigeria.
The awards will be presented in Akure, with delegates from various African nations, led by Rt. Hon. Wealth Akerele, the AYDP Speaker and first Nigerian to occupy the position since the organisation’s establishment by the African Union (AU).
Why It Matters
The recognition, according to AYDP, aims to celebrate individuals driving social and economic progress within Africa’s youth and leadership space.
“This honour reflects the continent’s commitment to spotlighting exceptional Africans whose work strengthens community resilience and inspires young people,” said Rt. Hon. Wealth Akerele.
The Speaker described the awards as “a platform for connecting Africa’s emerging leaders with those already shaping positive narratives through business, faith, education, and security.”
Profiles of the Honourees
Among those to be recognised are:
Pastor Gbenga Akinbiyi, Founder and Senior Pastor of Promise Land Prophetic Ministries, for his spiritual leadership and humanitarian outreach.
Mr. Folayele Clement, CEO of Clem Gate, Clem Water, and Sola Fish, for entrepreneurship and job creation.
Mr. Ayokunle Olowokande Anigilaje, a business mogul, for contributions to regional trade and investment.
Hon. (Dr) Ayewamide Oluwafemi (Doxology), for excellence in resource management and human capacity development.
Hon. Aderemi Oyewole Guilder, Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Inter-Political Affairs, for political leadership.
Surveyor Kayode Oludare, property and land consultant, for innovations in land development.
Mr. Aribigbola Ajifowowe (Fowowe), entrepreneur, to be named Special Diplomat and Continental Ambassador, gaining eligibility for diplomatic privileges under AU recognition.
Dr (Mrs) Damilola Oshin, Founder of Mummy’s Place International School and Emplace College, for excellence in education and youth development.
CP Adebowale Lawal, Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, for outstanding leadership in security.
Commandant Oluyemi Ibiloye, NSCDC Ondo State Commandant, for safeguarding national assets.
Commander Nanzing Daniel Sallah, NDLEA Ondo Commander, for combating illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
The CEO of Ever Shine Travels, for excellence in travel, tourism, and international partnerships.
Industry and Public Reactions
Local youth groups and civic leaders have welcomed the recognition, describing it as a “motivation for ethical leadership and youth participation in governance.”
What’s Next
The official award ceremony will take place in Akure, the Ondo State capital, and will include cultural showcases, youth policy discussions, and inter-African networking sessions.
AYDP said the initiative aims to “bridge continental partnerships” by strengthening local leadership visibility within the AU framework.
Nestlé Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and technical skills development with the graduation of 20 young trainees from the 8th cohort of its Technical Training Centre in Agbara, Ogun State.
The initiative, part of the global Nestlé Needs YOUth program launched in 2013, aims to enable 10 million young people worldwide to access economic opportunities by 2030.
Since its inception in 2011, the Agbara centre has invested more than ₦6 billion in equipping young Nigerians with vocational skills in food technology, engineering, and manufacturing operations.
Rigorous training with global certification
The latest graduates completed an 18-month intensive curriculum combining theoretical and practical engineering education. They received the City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, significantly enhancing their employability both in Nigeria and abroad.
Across its centres in Agbara, Flowergate, and Abaji, Nestlé has trained over 200 young professionals. About 95% of graduates have secured employment with Nestlé Nigeria in technical and production roles.
CEO: ‘A life-changing impact’
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, said:
“Each graduation ceremony is a true privilege because it allows us to witness firsthand the life-changing impact of the Nestlé Technical Training Center. Many of our graduates have gone on to build remarkable careers, including one who now serves as a Factory Engineer in Angola, and several others excelling as Engineering and Production Supervisors. From this class, five outstanding graduates will embark on an eight-week internship in Switzerland starting this October, under the framework of our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria. There, they will sharpen their technical expertise and gain valuable global exposure. These achievements go far beyond individual success, they uplift families, strengthen communities, and contribute to Nigeria’s industrial growth.”
Nestlé Needs YOUth: Beyond training
Mr. Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, highlighted the wider scope of the initiative:
“The Nestlé Technical Training Center is a cornerstone of Nestlé Needs YOUth, which empowers young people across Nigeria through four key pillars: employability, skills development, support, and access to opportunities. Beyond the training centers, our initiative includes programs such as the Nesternship Program, a virtual internship platform that allows young people to gain practical experience remotely; the Nestlé Youth Development Program, which provides training and mentorship to enhance employability; and our active participation in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria, a collaboration offering apprenticeships, traineeships, and job opportunities. Through these efforts, we reach an average of 25,000 young people annually, helping them build fulfilling careers and contribute to the growth of our communities.”
Stakeholders commend Nestlé’s efforts
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mrs. Adenike Aderonke, Director of Social and Labour Affairs, praised the program’s long-term impact:
“This program reaffirms our belief that skills are the future of work, especially for young people in today’s competitive environment. To the graduands, I extend heartfelt congratulations. Strive for excellence in your endeavors, uphold values of consistency, and make a positive impact in your chosen fields.”
Community leaders also showed their support. His Royal Highness, the Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade, said:
“I am proud to see a program that gives our youth real skills and opportunities. It is especially wonderful to see young people from my community succeeding through this initiative. I encourage these graduates to lead by example and inspire others to make the most of education, training, and personal development.”
Driving industrial growth through skills
With every cohort, the Nestlé Technical Training Centres continue to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial workforce. By empowering youth with employable skills, the initiative not only supports individual growth but also drives national economic development.
Youths
Rite Foods Champions Youth and Creative Culture with Dolphin Swimming League and Lagos Comic Convention
Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, is strengthening its commitment to youth empowerment, education, and creative culture through two landmark initiatives: its Sosa Fruit Drink partnership with the Dolphin Swimming League and its dynamic brand presence at the 2025 Lagos Comic Convention.
These efforts reflect the company’s strategy of combining grassroots sports investment with cultural engagement to support Nigeria’s next generation of leaders, athletes, and creators.
Investing in Nigeria’s future champions
Through its flagship Sosa Fruit Juice brand, Rite Foods has partnered with the Dolphin Swimming League, Nigeria’s first private school swimming tournament.
The league, organised by Dynaspro Promotion Limited with support from the Lagos State Swimming Association and the Aquatics Federation of Nigeria, has nurtured swimmers who have gone on to represent Nigeria at junior regional, continental, and world championships.
At the media briefing, Ruth Mark, Brand Manager for Sosa, highlighted the values behind the initiative:
“Sosa believes in the family unit. The brand is for the father, mother, and children. This partnership is a strategic one for Sosa; it is focused on investing in children through the Dolphin Swimming League.”
Adding to this, Olukemi Ogunsakin, Corporate Communications Manager, Rite Foods, said the initiative aligns with two pillars of the company’s EYEC sustainability framework—Youth Empowerment and Education.
“The league is a world-class sporting platform that will elevate Nigeria’s presence on the global stage. At Rite Foods, we believe in education, promoting sustainability, and investing in youth development for a better tomorrow,” she explained.
Mr. Oyebode Oluseyi, a sports coordinator, commended the brand’s commitment, noting the league has already produced 19 gold medalists at the Lagos Sports Festival.
“This league started with just four editions and has now grown to eight. For the first time, we’re introducing long-course races of 200m–400m. With Sosa’s support, we are confident the future is bright, and we envision our students becoming Olympians,” Oluseyi said.
The league is also set to expand with the launch of the South-West Dolphin League, broadening its reach beyond Lagos.
Energising Nigeria’s creative community
At the same time, Rite Foods made a bold statement at the 2025 Lagos Comic Convention, hosted at the Landmark Convention Centre, Victoria Island.
The event, one of Africa’s most anticipated gatherings celebrating comics, animation, film, and pop culture, provided the perfect stage for Sosa Fruit Drink, Bigi soft drinks, and Rite Sausage Rolls to connect with thousands of fans and creators.
Visitors enjoyed refreshing drinks and snacks while engaging with the brand at an interactive photo booth, which became a hotspot for cosplayers and enthusiasts. More than 2,000 guests were reached, with over 600 actively participating in branded experiences.
Speaking at the convention, Boma Harrison, Head of Marketing at Rite Foods Limited, said:
“Our participation in the Lagos Comic Convention reflects our commitment to celebrating Nigeria’s vibrant creative culture. Events like this give us the opportunity to connect with our consumers in unique ways while supporting the wider entertainment and pop culture ecosystem.”
Other notable brands, including Minimie, Verve, and Carbon, also participated, signalling the growing corporate interest in Nigeria’s creative economy.
Building a legacy in sports and culture
With its dual focus on sports development and creative culture, Rite Foods is creating lasting opportunities for young Nigerians.
From backing a grassroots league that nurtures swimming talent to energising a convention that celebrates creativity, the company is setting benchmarks for corporate investment in Nigeria’s future.
Rite Foods reaffirmed its pledge to continue driving initiatives that support education, sustainability, and youth empowerment, while also strengthening ties with the country’s vibrant cultural communities.
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