The Federal Ministry of Youth Development, in collaboration with Wema Bank and the Research Development and Training Institute (RDTI), has equipped 100 young Nigerians with practical vocational and digital skills.
At the closing ceremony held in Abuja, the Minister of Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, explained that the initiative was part of the second phase of the Skill novation Training Programme, designed to enhance youth employability and innovation.
He noted that the four-week training focused on hands-on skill acquisition in areas such as hairdressing, makeup artistry, confectionery, digital marketing, and shoemaking.
Represented by the Director General of the Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), Chief Obinna Nwaka, the minister said the programme formed part of the government’s broader strategy for youth empowerment and job creation.
According to him, the initiative aligns with other youth-focused projects of the ministry, including the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), Pi-CNG Youth Initiative, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), all targeted at fostering self-reliance and national growth.
Olawande added that the Skillnovation Programme reaffirms the government’s determination to reduce unemployment and poverty by offering young Nigerians opportunities to learn, innovate, and build sustainable livelihoods.
“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that Nigerian youths are empowered to contribute productively to the nation’s economy.
Programmes like this strengthen resilience, creativity, and productivity among our young population,” he said.
He commended the participants for their enthusiasm and urged them to put their newly acquired skills to productive use.
The minister also appreciated Dr. Chiji Ojukwu, Managing Director of the African Project Development Center Group (APDC), for his unwavering support of youth development programmes nationwide.
Other notable attendees included Mr. Kelechi Ugwumba, CYMS Director of Contacts and Mobilisation, and Ms. Evelyn from the Volunteer Group, who both stressed the importance of partnerships in advancing youth empowerment.
They added that equipping young Nigerians with practical skills would not only reduce unemployment but also drive entrepreneurship and innovation at the grassroots.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and financial support to the trainees as recognition of their successful participation.