Oando Foundation Awards N20M to 10 Young Innovators

The Oando Foundation's Green Youth Upskilling Programme (GYUP) represents a vital investment in Nigeria's future, empowering young innovators with the skills and resources needed to drive sustainable development. The recent awarding of N20 million to ten outstanding participants in the pilot cohort, as highlighted by ThisDay, underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering a new generation of leaders in the green economy. This initiative goes beyond mere training; it provides tangible financial support to accelerate the growth of their ventures, positioning them as key players in job creation and environmental stewardship.

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As an organisation, the Oando Foundation has focused on education since its inception in 2011. While education remains our core, we also recognise that it extends beyond foundational learning and formal academics. In collaboration with NCIC, we developed the Green Youth Upskilling Programme. Through GYUP, we provide practical, real-world green skills that build on participants’ existing knowledge and experience, enabling them to become more empowered and self-reliant individuals, actively contributing to Nigeria’s green economy. We are grateful for the opportunity to implement initiatives such as this, as we expand our focus beyond younger children to also support the youth, who are a critical part of Nigeria’s population.

As Tonia Uduimoh, Head of Oando Foundation, articulated, the program builds upon the foundation's long-standing dedication to education since 2011. However, GYUP expands this focus to encompass practical, real-world green skills, recognizing that true empowerment extends beyond formal academics. By collaborating with NCIC, the foundation is equipping participants with the knowledge and experience to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria's burgeoning green economy. The expansion to train an additional 50 young Nigerians in the new cohort signifies a scalable and impactful approach to youth empowerment.

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GYUP is proof that when the private sector, civil society, and development organizations come together with a shared purpose, we can create opportunities that truly transform lives.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, rightly pointed out that the success of GYUP is a testament to the power of collaboration between the private sector, civil society, and development organizations. This synergy is crucial for creating transformative opportunities. The N2 million grant received by beneficiaries like Toluwalase Abiona is not just funding; it's an accelerator for their innovative ideas in waste management and recycling. The message from Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, is clear: climate action is urgent, and the energy and ideas of these young innovators are indispensable. From a Nigerian perspective, initiatives like GYUP are not just commendable; they are essential for building a resilient and prosperous nation.

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Collectively, the beneficiaries received grant funding totaling N20 million to accelerate the growth of their ventures, positioning them as catalysts for job creation and environmental sustainability within their communities.