British Council, Octoville Expand Economic Opportunities for Youth, Women, PWDs

The British Council and Octoville Development Company have unveiled the Inclusive Economic Empowerment Pathways (IEE) Programme 2026, aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills, employment opportunities, and enterprise support. The eight-week foundational training in the programme is followed by either an employment-focused eight-week training with a six-week internship or a 16-week enterprise development program with eight weeks of mentorship and business coaching.

The initiative targets at least 50% women and 8% persons with disabilities (PWDs) and will be implemented by Octoville Development Company in Abuja. The programme addresses critical gaps in digital and financial literacy, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and career guidance, as well as the lack of operational, project, financial, and professional skills demanded by employers.

The Minister of Youth Development highlighted the inclusion targets and the importance of practical skills, work experience, and mentorship for young Nigerians in a changing economy. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) also offered free business registration to PWDs and some participants, enabling them to formalize their businesses and participate in the formal economy.