FG Trains 239,726 Youths Through Nigerian Youth Academy

The Federal Government has successfully trained 239,726 Nigerian youths through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), as announced by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day. The initiative aims to equip young Nigerians with essential digital, employability, and practical skills to enhance their access to economic opportunities and create pathways for employment and entrepreneurship.

Olawande reported that 1,215,203 certificates had been downloaded from the NiYA platform, indicating a strong engagement among youths in skill acquisition. Additionally, 200 young business owners received N1 million each under the NiYA StartUp initiative, while another 200 in the informal sector received N500,000 each to bolster their businesses.

The ministry's partnership with Cascador Founders aims to provide further support to selected young entrepreneurs. The Permanent Secretary, Dr Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, emphasized the need for sustained investment in youth development, while the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps reaffirmed the commitment to equipping youths with relevant skills.