Nigeria Launches Skills-to-Jobs Initiative for Youth Employment

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated the Skills-to-Jobs Initiative, aimed at training and connecting 300,000 young Nigerians to job opportunities in the digital and creative economy. This initiative is part of the larger Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme, which is financed by the African Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement, and the Islamic Development Bank, with the Bank of Industry serving as a co-financier and executing agency.

The programme was launched across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, with six implementing partners selected to deliver training and facilitate employment connections. The initiative targets an employment linkage rate of at least 80%, aiming for 240,000 beneficiaries to secure jobs post-training.

Participants aged 15 to 35 will be selected from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with training offered in Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced tracks. Inclusion targets include at least 40% female participants, 5% persons with disabilities, and 5% NEET youth.

Dr Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director and CEO of the Bank of Industry, emphasized the initiative's role in equipping youth with relevant skills and enhancing their economic contributions.