Nestlé Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the human capacity development of its host communities, in collaboration with the Alliance for Youth Nigeria initiatives to train about 1,331 Nigerian youth in vocational skills.
Shakiru Lawal, country human resources manager, Nestlé Nigeria, stated that FMCGs company is committed to working with like-minded organisations to ensure that young people are equipped with the skills necessary to secure meaningful employment or start their own businesses.
He stated that Nestlé Nigeria and other corporate members of the Alliance for Youth Nigeria remain committed to ensuring that young people are prepared for today’s challenges and equipped to lead with innovative solutions in the digital-driven future.
According to Lawal, investing in today’s youth is crucial because the actions taken now will shape the country’s future prosperity. “At Nestlé, we understand that the well-being of our communities depends on the opportunities we create for the next generation. The 372 beneficiaries of this year’s training have now joined the 805 youth we have previously trained in technical and vocational skills.”
Lawal stated further that beyond the Alliance for Youth, Nestlé’s commitment to empowering young people extends to its broader youth engagement platform, Nestlé Needs YOUth, which was launched in 2013.
He stated that the initiative helps young people access economic opportunities through four key pillars: employment, skills development, support, and creating more opportunities. “Through these programs, Nestlé reaches an average of 25,000 youths annually, making a difference in their lives and the future of Nigeria,” Lawal stated.
Since 2021, Alliance for Youth Nigeria has collaborated with federal platforms such as NYSC, career fairs, and mutual goal-oriented organisations to provide 35,499 youth with vocational training, employability, and soft skill enhancements, which aligns with the organisation’s objective to empower 250,000 young people.
“As we celebrate International Youth Day and the 3rd Anniversary of the Alliance for Youth, we are reminded of the immense potential within our young people to drive transformative change,” Tumi Onamade, chief operating officer, United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, stated while reflecting on the broader impact of the Alliance for Youth Nigeria initiatives.
According to Onamade, the dedication, creativity, and resilience shown by the young people, especially those who traveled from various states to participate in the vocational skills training held in Ogun State, highlights their commitment to personal growth and community development.
“These young individuals are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the change-makers of today, shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future with their innovative ideas and bold actions.
“At the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, we are committed to supporting the Alliance and our youth by providing them with the skills to realize their potential. By investing in their education, skills development, and leadership, we empower them to create a future where everyone can thrive,” Onamade stated.
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