UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria Empowers Over 9 Million Youth Through Digital Learning and Skills Development
Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA), a UNICEF-led initiative, announced a significant milestone today, celebrating three years of empowering over 9 million Nigerian youth through a unique public-private partnership. GenU 9JA’s Steering Committee convened at the Airtel Headquarters in Lagos to review progress, set new targets, and highlight the transformative impact of digital learning, skills development, and youth engagement in Nigeria.
Since its launch in 2021, GenU 9JA has surpassed its original three-year target of reaching 7.5 million youth, putting it on track to meet its ambitious goal of connecting 20 million young Nigerians to growth opportunities by 2030. The initiative’s core areas—Connectivity and Digital Learning, Workplace Readiness, and Youth Engagement—were highlighted in the meeting, with key partners presenting updates on their contributions to the program’s success.
Carl Cruz, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, emphasized Airtel’s commitment to digital access through the UNICEF-Airtel Reimagine Education Program, part of GenU 9JA. “Airtel is proud to play a role in ensuring no young Nigerian is left behind in this digital age. We are encouraged by the success among the 1,260 schools connected through our partnership,” Cruz said.
In addition, Somachi Chris-Asoluka, CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), spoke on youth entrepreneurship, stressing the importance of economic opportunities for young Africans. She highlighted TEF’s “BeGreen Africa” initiative, which aims to support more than 400 young entrepreneurs with green-focused mentorship, training, and seed capital.
UNICEF Nigeria’s Representative Cristian Munduate underlined the importance of continued investment in youth: “The future of any nation lies in the hands of its children and youth. By providing skills, opportunities, and a platform for engagement, we are not only changing individual lives but also shaping a brighter future for Nigeria.”
Achievements of GenU 9JA Over the Past Three Years
– Digital Learning and Connectivity: Over 800,000 young Nigerians now have access to digital learning tools like the Nigeria Learning Passport, which has helped bridge educational gaps in underserved communities.
– Workplace Readiness: More than 1 million youth have gained critical employability skills and livelihood opportunities.
– Youth Engagement: Over 500,000 young people have participated in youth-led programs, enhancing their roles as active community changemakers.
A Call for Continued Support
GenU 9JA concluded its meeting with a strong call for sustained investment in Nigeria’s youth, urging government, private sector, and civil society partners to continue their support to ensure young Nigerians are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
