The Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation (CADEF) has formed a strategic partnership with Jacob’s Ladder Africa (JLA) to enhance green innovation and youth entrepreneurship across Nigeria. This collaboration will introduce JLA’s renowned Greenlabs incubation program to the country, a significant step toward fostering youth-driven climate solutions and sustainability in West Africa.
Prof. Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, Executive Director of CADEF, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Jacob’s Ladder Africa reflects our shared commitment to empowering Nigerian youths to lead the nation’s green transition. With the right tools, resources, and mentorship, we can turn Nigeria’s young population into a driving force for sustainable economic growth while addressing unemployment.”
CADEF has a strong track record in youth development, demonstrated by its successful Fingreen Financial Literacy Programme launched in August 2023, which empowered over 800 Nigerian youths with essential financial skills. The foundation is also advancing the Digital Financial Services project, which is equipping over 100 People with Disabilities (PWDs), including visually and hearing-impaired youths, with critical digital financial literacy skills.
Building on these achievements, CADEF is now focusing on the green economy as a powerful avenue to further empower Nigerian youth. Through this new partnership, CADEF and JLA will establish Greenlabs in Nigeria—a nine-month incubation program designed to support young entrepreneurs in creating scalable green ventures. The initiative will kick off with the Renewable Energy Innovation Challenge in Lagos, inviting young innovators to propose renewable energy solutions that combat climate change and improve energy access.
Sellah Bogonko, CEO and Co-Founder of Jacob’s Ladder Africa, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “Launching Greenlabs in Nigeria is a key development in our mission to empower the next generation to lead Africa’s green transition. We’re tapping into the immense potential of Nigerian youth to drive sustainable economic growth through green innovation.”
Applications for the Renewable Energy Innovation Challenge will open in early September, offering participants mentorship from industry professionals and academics, along with opportunities to secure pre-seed funding for their startups. Finalists will also be considered for sponsorship into the Greenlabs incubation program, providing the necessary support to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures.
As CADEF and JLA progress with this partnership, they are confident that their combined efforts will lead to significant advancements in Nigeria’s green economy, providing young entrepreneurs with a platform to transform their ideas into impactful realities.
