UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) held its annual Steering Committee meeting on Tuesday at Airtel Headquarters in Lagos, celebrating three years of innovative youth empowerment and setting ambitious goals for the future.
GenU 9JA’s Public-Private-Youth-Partnership (PPYP) Platform, established to create pathways in digital learning, skill development, and employment, has exceeded its initial target by reaching over 9 million Nigerian youths, surpassing its goal of 7.5 million. This accomplishment marks significant progress toward its 2030 vision of connecting 20 million young Nigerians to growth opportunities.
The event brought together partners from government, the private sector, civil society, UN organizations, and youth leaders across Nigeria to discuss the initiative’s impact and next steps. GenU 9JA’s achievements span three pillars: digital learning, workplace readiness, and youth engagement. Key partners shared updates on their contributions, underscoring the critical role of collaboration in driving results.
Carl Cruz, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, emphasized the importance of digital access through initiatives like the UNICEF-Airtel Reimagine Education Programme, which has connected 1,260 schools nationwide. “Airtel is proud to ensure no young Nigerian is left behind in this digital age,” he said.
Somachi Chris-Asoluka, CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), highlighted the economic impact of youth entrepreneurship. “Young people are Africa’s transformation engines,” she noted, referencing TEF’s support for over 20,000 entrepreneurs and the launch of the BeGreen Africa initiative to train and fund eco-conscious ventures.
UNICEF Nigeria’s Representative, Cristian Munduate, urged continued investment in Nigeria’s youth, stating, “The future of any nation lies in its youth. By providing skills and opportunities, we shape a brighter future for Nigeria.”
GenU 9JA’s three-year achievements include digital learning access for over 800,000 youths, employability training for over a million, and community leadership opportunities for over 500,000. The committee called for sustained commitment from all sectors to empower Nigeria’s next generation for lasting development.
