Source: Thisdaylive
Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA), led by UNICEF, has successfully provided nearly nine million young Nigerians with access to digital learning tools, skill development programs, and livelihood opportunities. This innovative Public-Private-Youth Partnership (PPYP) is dedicated to closing the gap between education and employment, equipping young people for productive roles and active citizenship.
During its annual Steering Committee meeting in Lagos, GenU 9JA celebrated three years of significant achievements, outlined bold objectives for the future, and reaffirmed its mission to empower even more Nigerian youth. Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Nigeria’s Representative, highlighted the initiative’s progress and ongoing efforts to link young people with opportunities in education, employment, and community engagement.
The meeting revolved around three primary pillars: Digital Connectivity and Learning, Workplace Readiness, and Youth Engagement. Key participants, including government representatives, private sector leaders, civil society organizations, and youth, discussed collaborative achievements and charted plans for the future.
Munduate reported that GenU 9JA has surpassed its three-year goal by reaching nine million young people, exceeding the initial target of 7.5 million. “This milestone positions us to achieve our 2030 goal of connecting 20 million youths with transformative opportunities,” she stated. Among the achievements, over 800,000 youths now benefit from digital learning via the Nigeria Learning Passport, one million have acquired employability skills, and 500,000 have participated in community programs as changemakers.
Carl Cruz, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, emphasized the importance of digital access, highlighting Airtel’s role in UNICEF’s Reimagine Education Programme, which has connected 1,260 schools, enabling Nigerian youth to thrive in the digital age. “Airtel is proud to ensure no young Nigerian is left behind in this era of digital transformation,” Cruz remarked.
Similarly, Somachi Chris-Asoluka, CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), highlighted youth entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic development. Since 2015, TEF has empowered over 20,000 African entrepreneurs, creating 400,000 jobs. Through its BeGreen Africa initiative, the foundation is also supporting 400 green-focused entrepreneurs across Africa, from Nigeria to Morocco, with training, mentorship, and startup funding.
In conclusion, the GenU 9JA committee called for enhanced investment in Nigeria’s youth, urging leaders in government, the private sector, and civil society to strengthen support systems to prepare young Nigerians for impactful roles in national development.
