BOI, Sapphital, ministry to deliver skills training to 500 Nigerians

The Bank of Industry, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, has initiated the BOI Youth Empowerment Pilot Programme. This program aims to offer free vocational and entrepreneurial training to 500 young Nigerians. The training will be conducted by Sapphital, a digital learning and technology company headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria. Sapphital specializes in AI-powered Learning Management Systems, e-learning, and custom software solutions.

The program will equip participants with practical skills and knowledge to enhance skill development, enterprise development, entrepreneurship, and future employment opportunities. The training will be provided at the Nigerian Youth Academy, through short, instructor-led video courses. These courses were chosen based on their potential to generate income and meet market demands. Topics covered will include creative and artisan skills, production and manufacturing skills, as well as digital skills.

In addition to the training, selected participants will receive mentorship, practical exposure, and access to enterprise support opportunities. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the administration's commitment to youth empowerment, stating that President Tinubu believes in the importance of youth empowerment and training as core pillars of national reform.

He added that a nation succeeds when its young population is globally competitive, and through this program, Nigerian youths will be equipped with the necessary skills and capabilities to compete and thrive on a global scale.

Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, highlighted that young Nigerians are the country's greatest economic asset. He emphasized that the Bank of Industry is committed to providing them with the tools required to build a brighter future, create viable enterprises, and participate in the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Arinze Nwafor, a journalist at Punch Newspapers, reported on the launch of this initiative, focusing on its potential to scale across Nigeria and support the country's economic growth.