Nigeria Equips Over 239,000 Youths with Skills Through Youth Academy

Nigeria's Federal Government has successfully equipped 239,726 young Nigerians with essential digital, employability, and practical skills through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA). Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the figures during the commemoration of International Youth Day. He stated that the initiative is a key part of the government's strategy to enhance young people's access to economic opportunities and create clear pathways toward employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods. "Through NiYA, we are equipping our young people with the practical skills they need to navigate the changing world of work and take advantage of emerging opportunities," Olawande said. The platform has seen significant engagement, with 1,215,203 certificates downloaded, which the minister highlighted as proof of Nigerian youths' determination to acquire new skills and boost their employability. Beyond skills training, NiYA has provided direct financial support to young entrepreneurs. Specifically, 200 young business owners received N1 million each under the NiYA StartUp initiative. Additionally, 200 individuals operating in the informal sector received N500,000 each to bolster their businesses. The ministry is also partnering with Cascador Founders to offer further support, including access to capital and business development services, to selected young entrepreneurs on the NiYA platform. "Our commitment is to ensure that young Nigerians do not only acquire skills but also have access to the opportunities and support they need to turn their ideas into sustainable businesses," Olawande added. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, emphasized the need for sustained investment in youth development and called for stronger collaboration among government bodies, development partners, the private sector, and youth-led organizations to ensure interventions are inclusive and responsive to evolving needs.

“

Through NiYA, we are equipping our young people with the practical skills they need to navigate the changing world of work and take advantage of emerging opportunities.