The Alliance for Youth Nigeria has announced that more than 25,000 young Nigerians have benefitted from its skills training, entrepreneurship support, and job placement initiatives since its launch four years ago.
Founded in 2021 by Nestlé Nigeria, Jobberman Nigeria, Big Bottling Company, United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, and U-Connect HR Limited, the Alliance is working with the Federal Ministry of Youth, Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, and Activate Success International to achieve an ambitious goal: equipping 250,000 young Nigerians with employability and entrepreneurial skills by 2030.
Training in practical skills
This year, 585 young people completed the Alliance’s Vocational Skills Training programme in Jos, gaining hands-on expertise in beauty care, video editing, solar panel installation, and web design.
Top performers were awarded start-up kits and seed capital, enabling them to immediately turn their skills into income. Many showcased their abilities through live projects, proving the direct benefits of vocational training.
Private sector commitment
Highlighting the role of business in youth empowerment, Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resource Manager, Nestlé Nigeria, said:
“As a proud member of the Alliance for Youth Nigeria, Nestlé Nigeria is committed to the shared vision of empowering young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive. Together with other like-minded partners, we are creating pathways to employment, building careers, and nurturing the next generation of leaders who will shape a better future for our nation.”
A global and national priority
Speaking on behalf of Naomi Nwokolo, CEO/ED, UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, Stephanie Iwunze underlined the importance of keeping pace with technological change:
“The youth constitute a vital segment of Nigeria’s predominantly young population. Now more than ever, it is imperative to invest in this generation, especially as rapid technological advancements reshape the global landscape. Without deliberate and focused action, Nigeria risks falling further behind, widening the gap in keeping pace with global progress.”
Government representatives also expressed strong support. Mrs. Deborah Simon Pitmang, Zonal Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Youth, noted:
“Any alliance that focuses on developing young people’s skills is not only building individuals, but also building the nation. Youth make up a vital segment of Nigeria’s population, and the urgent need to invest in their skills cannot be overstated. The truth remains: the higher the skills, the higher the gains.”
Driving employability
Adding the perspective of employability experts, Olamide Adeyeye, Country Head of Programmes, Jobberman Nigeria, said:
“With over 70% of our population being youth, we know that there can be no socioeconomic transformation in Nigeria without the meaningful development of young people. This is why Jobberman, as a member of the alliance, is supporting millions to be upskilled and transition into meaningful work.”
Looking ahead
Since inception, the Alliance for Youth Nigeria has transformed lives nationwide through training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support. Every graduate has either secured employment or launched a business.
The Alliance says it is committed to expanding training opportunities, deepening public-private partnerships, and responding to Nigeria’s fast-changing job market.