The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has commenced a three-week youth training program in the Southwest geopolitical zone focused on agriculture, renewable energy, and the automotive industry.
The initiative, titled Skill to Wealth (S2W), was officially launched on Thursday in Lagos by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. The program is designed to empower young Nigerians with practical skills to foster self-reliance and economic growth in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are here not just to begin a training programme but to ignite a movement powered by young Nigerians who are hungry to learn and ready to build a future,” Prof. Yilwatda said.
He emphasised that the S2W program targets high-impact sectors to address youth unemployment, promote self-employment, and reduce poverty. The training also aims to modernise traditional trades like auto mechanics, while encouraging entrepreneurship in emerging industries such as solar energy.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Kofarmata, noted that the program is a strategic move to shift Nigerians from dependency to economic independence.
“This programme speaks to our shared goal of empowering Nigerians through practical skills and sustainable livelihoods,” Kofarmata added. “It is not a handout, but a hand-up.”
Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), a key partner in the program, will provide training facilities and technical support. DBI President/CEO, Mr. David Daser, encouraged participants to fully maximise the opportunity.
“Opportunities like this don’t come often. Use this to scale your business and build a better future,” Daser advised.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the National Youth Council, Lagos State, Mr. Olalekan Adigun, praised the Federal Government’s focus on youth empowerment and called on the participants to make the most of the initiative.
“This is a life-changing opportunity that can transform your entire household forever,” Adigun said.
One of the participants, Mr. Ridwan Atolagbe, expressed gratitude to the government, saying the program had opened his eyes to new possibilities and inspired him to work toward building a better life.
The Skill to Wealth program is part of a broader national rollout that will cover all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, targeting youths, women, and vulnerable groups for inclusion in sustainable economic development.
