Sierra Leone and Nigeria launch major youth employment and skills programs

The governments of Sierra Leone and Nigeria have announced major initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment through youth-focused employment and skills training programs.

In Sierra Leone, Minister of Youth Affairs Ibrahim Sannoh pledged to create 500,000 sustainable jobs for young people by 2030 as part of the Medium-Term National Development Plan. This target is a component of President Julius Maada Bio’s development agenda, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, technology, and infrastructure. The government is currently collaborating with the World Bank on programs to provide cash transfers and skills training to over 70,000 youths. Training efforts will include practical instruction in local languages for trades like construction and modern farming.

In Nigeria, the federal government aims to lift five million young people out of poverty through skills acquisition and empowerment programs under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy. Dr. Abiola Arogundade, coordinator of the program, noted that the initiative provides training in market-relevant fields such as artificial intelligence, graphics, and fashion design. The program, which began in the Federal Capital Territory, is expanding to various states, including a recent phase in Oyo State, to enhance economic independence and employability.