By Theresa Moses
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has a population exceeding 200 million, of which about 70 per cent are youths and 42 per cent are under the age of 15. There’s more focus on the extraordinary initiatives that have ignited hope and opportunity for Nigeria’s young generation. Yet, they negate the lives, aspirations, and challenges faced by Nigerian youths.
From the ever-busy streets of Lagos to the remote villages of the Niger Delta, we hear about youths who are rewriting their destinies against all odds. Through their voices and experiences, we witness the transformative power of education, vocational training, and mentorship programmes.
No doubt, both government and non-governmental organisations have played a critical role in creating avenues for skill development, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship. Addressing the pressing issues of youth unemployment and how innovative solutions are being deployed to combat this challenge.
The impact of digital technology, social media, and online learning on the Nigerian youth has created a generation that is not just informed but actively participating in the nation’s development. More youths want to be influencers on Social Media, content creators, skit makers, among others.
Extraordinary initiatives aimed at empowering Nigeria’s young generation have indeed ignited hope and created opportunities for the youth. Here is evidence-based data highlighting some of these initiatives:
The Nigerian government has implemented several youth-focused programmes, including the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP). That had benefited millions of Nigerians, including young people through various components like the N-Power scheme, which provides employment and skill development opportunities to young Nigerians with job training, education, and a monthly stipend of N30,000.
Initiatives like the National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP) and the National Directorate of Employment’s (NDE’s) vocational training programmes have provided skills training to thousands of young Nigerians. According to the NDE, it trained over 196,000 people in various skills in 2020. Others are the National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP), Women Skills Empowerment Programme (WOSEP), Air-conditioning and Refrigeration (Training on Wheels), Designing and Garment Making, and Skill Training and Empowerment Programme for the Physically Challenged (STEP-C); Post-harvest Techniques and Project Development, Aquaculture/Fish Farming, Manure Production, Crop Production/Greenhouse Technology, Poultry Farming and Training Programme Development on International Marketing, etc.
The government’s commitment to improving access to quality education is evident through initiatives like the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme. Enrollment data shows that more Nigerian youth have access to quality basic education. In 2020, the primary school enrollment rate was around 72 per cent, indicating progress in youth education.
Nigeria’s vibrant start-up ecosystem has created numerous opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Lagos, in particular, has gained recognition as a tech hub. Investments in Nigerian start-ups reached approximately $120 million in 2020, according to Partech Africa, indicating growing opportunities for young business leaders.
Organisations like the Tony Elumelu Foundation have been offering grants and mentorship to thousands of young African entrepreneurs, including Nigerians. These initiatives have enabled youths to launch and grow their businesses.
Digital and online opportunities abound, especially with a growing Internet penetration rate. Many young Nigerians have access to digital work and freelance opportunities. The gig economy and freelancing have gained popularity among youths, providing flexible employment options.
Youth in Agriculture is also another programme that has encouraged young people to engage in agriculture, such as the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) and the Young Farmers Scheme. These initiatives have provided financial and technical support to young farmers.
While challenges persist, the evidence suggests that Nigeria has taken significant steps to empower its youth through various programmes and initiatives, increasing opportunities and hope for the younger generation.
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