The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has urged governments and stakeholders to increase investment in skills development to reduce youth unemployment and prepare young people for the evolving world of work.
Speaking at the 2026 World Youth Skills Day celebration in Abuja, ILO Country Director Vanessa Phala, represented by Inviolata Chinyangarara, said digitalisation, artificial intelligence and the transition to a green economy had made technical, digital, entrepreneurial and green skills more essential than ever. She called for stronger collaboration among governments, employers, training institutions and development partners to bridge existing skills gaps.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through the Nigerian Youth Academy under the “One Youth, Two Skills” initiative. Representing the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, officials said the programme is designed to equip young Nigerians with market-relevant skills that promote employment, entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
The National Council on Climate Change also stressed the importance of green skills in renewable energy and climate adaptation, noting that they would create new employment opportunities while supporting Nigeria’s low-carbon transition. Participants at the event, meanwhile, urged young people to combine academic qualifications with practical skills and make better use of digital platforms to access training and job opportunities.
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