FG trains 239,726 Nigerians through youth academy

The Federal Government has announced that it has trained 239,726 Nigerian youths through the Nigerian Youth Academy, according to Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande. Speaking at the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja, Olawande highlighted the initiative as part of the government's effort to equip young Nigerians with essential skills for the modern workforce. The program focuses on digital literacy, employability, and practical training aimed at enhancing economic opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship. Olawande emphasized that the Nigerian Youth Academy, or NiYA, provides young people with the tools needed to adapt to evolving job markets and seize emerging opportunities. He noted that over 1,215,203 certificates have been downloaded from the NiYA platform, reflecting the high level of engagement by Nigerian youth in acquiring new skills. This data underscores the determination of young Nigerians to enhance their employability and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Under the NiYA StartUp initiative, 200 young business owners have received N1 million each, while another 200 individuals working in the informal sector have been granted N500,000 each to bolster their enterprises. These financial supports aim to empower aspiring entrepreneurs and sustain existing small-scale operations. Additionally, the ministry has partnered with Cascador Founders to offer further assistance to selected young entrepreneurs through access to capital, business development resources, and growth opportunities. Olawande reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that skill acquisition translates into viable economic activities. He stated that the goal is to enable young Nigerians to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses, thereby contributing to national development. Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, the Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, urged continued investment in youth programs. She praised the resilience and ingenuity of Nigerian youth and called for greater collaboration among government bodies, development agencies, private entities, and youth organizations. Such cooperation, she argued, is crucial for expanding opportunities and making youth-focused policies more effective and adaptable to current challenges. Brigadier General [Name], representing the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, affirmed the organization's dedication to equipping young Nigerians with the skills required for meaningful roles in national progress. The Corps continues its mission of preparing youth for productive societal contributions. Sandra Vermuijten, Head of Programme at GIZ Centres for Migration and Nigerian Diaspora Matters, underscored the value of strategic alliances in generating long-term prospects for young people. Her remarks focused on how partnerships can drive advancements in areas such as skills training, employment, and addressing migration issues. CDS President Okpalaji Cheta Byron expressed appreciation for the ministry and other stakeholders who have created platforms for youth empowerment, inclusion, and active involvement in national affairs. He emphasized that engaging youth effectively is vital for Nigeria's ongoing development. The initiatives reflect a broader governmental strategy to integrate young Nigerians into the country's developmental trajectory. By focusing on education, entrepreneurship, and economic participation, these programs seek to harness the potential of the youth population as a key driver of national growth.