Empowering Nigeria's Youth: A pathway to sustainable enterprise and job creation

By Ibrahim Hamisu,  Kano.

A second phase of initiative implemented by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), funded by the British Council and supported by King’s Trust Internation aims to turn the tide for Nigeria's youth,  has began on Saturday, Ni'ima Hotel, Kano.

To equip young individuals with the tools necessary for success, CITAD embarks on a comprehensive entrepreneurship program focused on fostering both technical and soft skills. This structured training will provide participants with a wide-ranging understanding of various business dynamics, empowering them to transition smoothly into the business and labour markets.

Building on their previous success, where 60 youths were trained in the first phase of the project, CITAD sets out to train an additional 70 youths in Kano, targeting young people aged 18 to 25, with extended provisions for individuals up to 35. Notably, the initiative places significant emphasis on women and persons living with disabilities (PLWD), ensuring inclusivity in the training process.

The training program encompasses critical areas including digital entrepreneurship, ICT skills, and marketing, along with essential soft skills that bolster employability and entrepreneurial capacity. By focusing on digital entrepreneurship, participants will learn to navigate the digital landscape, creating and sustaining their businesses within the rapidly evolving online marketplace. 

CITAD Executive Director Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, the initiative was targeted at cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset of young hearts who are desirous to be self reliant.

Ya’u represented by the Senior Program Officer Isa Garba explained that, the programme is determined to ensuring that, youths who are aspiring to flourish as prosperous entrepreneurs are given the needed mentorship and other supports necessary for their skill development.

“Our hope is to see that we share business experience together and for us to develop youths using their skills for Transformation”. He said.

The British Council and King’s Trust International's ongoing support for CITAD highlights a collaborative effort to nurture a generation of resilient and capable business leaders. As the nation grapples with the reality of youth unemployment, initiatives like these serve as a beacon of hope, enabling young Nigerians to take charge of their futures, become self-reliant, and contribute meaningfully to society. With the right skills and support, the youth of Nigeria can emerge as the architects of their own destinies, fostering a prosperous tomorrow for themselves and their communities.

 Through these training programmes, Nigeria's youth will unlock their potential, driving innovation and economic development across the country.