Future-ready skills will define Nigeria’s next economic leap — JMG

JMG, an integrated electro-mechanical solutions company, has called for a robust collaboration between the Nigerian government, industries, and educational institutions. This initiative aims to equip young Nigerians with essential future-ready skills crucial for driving innovation, boosting employability, and accelerating sustainable economic growth. The company's appeal coincides with the commemoration of World Youth Skills Day 2026, an annual event that underscores the importance of preparing young people for the evolving demands of the global job market.

Gloria Ibeziako, JMG's Chief Human Resources Officer, stressed that the future prosperity of any economy hinges on the quality of its human capital. As technology continues to revolutionize industries, she emphasized the necessity of providing young individuals with not only technical knowledge but also critical digital, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. These competencies, she argued, are vital for enabling them to compete effectively on a global scale.

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The future of every economy depends on the quality of its people. As technology continues to reshape industries, we must ensure that young people are equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the digital, problem-solving and collaborative skills that will enable them to compete and succeed anywhere in the world.

Ibeziako further noted that while emerging technologies present transformative shifts in the workplace, they simultaneously create new avenues for ambitious young people. Those willing to embrace continuous learning and innovation are poised to seize these emerging opportunities. She highlighted the significant role businesses must play in nurturing the next generation of professionals.

Beyond job creation, Ibeziako urged organizations to actively support practical learning experiences. This includes offering mentorship programs, providing workplace exposure, and delivering technical training. Such initiatives, she believes, are essential for effectively bridging the gap between academic learning and the practical requirements of the industry, ultimately fostering a more skilled and adaptable workforce for Nigeria's economic advancement.

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Businesses have an important role to play in developing the next generation of professionals. Beyond creating jobs, organisations should support practical learning through mentorship, workplace exposure and technical training that bridge the gap between education and industry.