By Chinedu Ajayi
In a bold move to tackle youth unemployment and foster economic independence, the Federal Government of Nigeria has kicked off a transformative three-week training initiative targeting agriculture, renewable energy, and automotive sectors across the Southwest region.
Launched under the Skill to Wealth (S2W) program, the initiative was officially unveiled in Lagos by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. The program aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is designed to equip young Nigerians with hands-on skills that promote self-reliance and innovation.
“We’re here to ignite a movement powered by young Nigerians hungry to learn and ready to build a future,” declared Prof. Yilwatda at the launch.
The S2W program targets high-impact industries with the goal of modernising traditional vocations such as auto repair while opening pathways into emerging fields like solar energy. According to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Kofarmata, this initiative represents a shift from dependency to sustainable livelihoods.
“This is not a handout but a hand-up,” Kofarmata emphasised.
Training facilities and technical support are being provided by the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), whose President/CEO, Mr. David Daser, urged participants to fully embrace the opportunity.
“Use this to scale your business and build a better future,” Daser said.
Support for the program also came from Mr. Olalekan Adigun, Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the National Youth Council, who lauded the government’s commitment to youth development.
“This is a life-changing opportunity that can transform your entire household,” Adigun told participants.
Among those benefiting from the initiative is Mr. Ridwan Atolagbe, who described the program as an eye-opener that had redefined his aspirations.
The Skill to Wealth rollout is expected to extend across all six geopolitical zones, reaching youths, women, and vulnerable communities nationwide.
