The Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) was established by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the nation’s rising unemployment rate.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima spoke on Tinubu’s behalf, saying the program underscores his administration’s commitment to giving Nigerian youth the skills they need to compete on a global scale.
Over the next two years, the school would teach millions of young Nigerians, he said, giving them the information and abilities they need to succeed globally.
“Through world-class training in digital literacy, technical skills, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries, we will ensure that our youth are equipped to compete on the global stage,” Tinubu said.
“Initiatives like the Youth Investment Fund and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters will provide financial support, mentorship, and resources to young entrepreneurs, while the establishment of a National Youth Development Bank will ensure access to the capital needed to turn ideas into thriving businesses.
“We are investing in our youth because they are the future of this nation. NiYA represents a real opportunity to change the narrative of youth unemployment and learning poverty in our country.”
The project will close the skills gap in Nigeria’s labour market, according to Ayodele Olawande, minister for youth development, who encouraged young people to take advantage of all the chances the academy provides.
“NiYA represents President Tinubu’s commitment to building a better future for Nigerian youths,” Olawande said.
“This is a platform where they can acquire skills, create businesses, and improve their lives and the lives of their families.”
The programme, which offers training in education and skills development, economic empowerment, and leadership, aims to create pathways for Nigerian youths to engage in the global economy.
The launch also featured a presentation of N1 million start-up packages to six beneficiaries from each geopolitical zone.
