Government, private sector and development partners rally behind initiative to close Nigeria’s digital skills gap…
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has marked a significant milestone with the graduation of the pioneer cohort of the NECA ICT Academy Abuja, a capacity-building initiative designed to equip young Nigerians with digital competencies required for employability, innovation and the future of work.
According to a statement, the graduation ceremony in Abuja drew government dignitaries, private sector leaders and development partners, all aligned behind a common goal, preparing Nigeria’s youth for an increasingly digital global economy.
Hosting the event, NECA’s Director-General, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, said the academy was established to close Nigeria’s widening digital skills gap and empower young people with hands-on knowledge that can drive economic advancement. He reiterated NECA’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s workforce.
“As Nigeria continues to position itself for global competitiveness, the ICT Academy championed by NECA stands as a beacon of opportunity bridging gaps, raising aspirations and empowering the next generation of tech-driven talents,” Oyerinde said.
Delivering his goodwill message, the representative of Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule commended NECA’s vision in shaping youth skills development. He said the state government was ready to partner with the organisation to scale digital and vocational training across Nasarawa.
Sule praised NECA for its innovative approach to youth empowerment, stressing the need for robust and scalable digital training platforms capable of responding to Nigeria’s rapidly evolving labour market.
“For the graduates, this moment marks the beginning of a new chapter,” he said, noting that the participants trained in digital literacy, ICT fundamentals and employability skills are now ready to apply their knowledge in real-life opportunities.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Special Assistant to the President, Office of the Vice President (Strategy & Policy – Workforce Development), Rimamskeb Nuhu; the Managing Director of ProHealth and Chairman, NECA Northern Geographical Zone, Chinedu Nnabuihe, who served as Special Guest of Honour; among others.
The NECA ICT Academy Abuja forms part of NECA’s broader agenda to build a digitally competent workforce and expand pathways for decent jobs, entrepreneurship and national development.
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