Emma Okonji
IHS Nigeria has strengthened its commitment to youth empowerment in Cross River State by equipping 100 young people in the state who recently graduated from its “Project Empower” initiative.
The beneficiaries were trained in vocational skills and gifted business starter packs to support their businesses and drive sustainable self-employment.
The programme which was implemented in partnership with Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) and supported by the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA), is designed to create long-term economic opportunities by equipping unemployed youths with practical, income-generating skills.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Calabar, Associate Director, Government Relations and External Affairs, IHS Nigeria, Gbolahan Thomas, said the company’s commitment extended beyond telecommunications infrastructure to investing in people and the communities where it operates.
He noted that sustainability remains at the heart of IHS Nigeria’s operations, adding that improved connectivity should also translate into better access to education, healthcare, employment and economic opportunities.
According to Thomas, Project Empower supports the company’s sustainability agenda by promoting education, economic growth and community development through vocational and entrepreneurial training.
Since its launch in 2010, he said, the initiative empowered thousands of beneficiaries across Nigeria through strategic partnerships and practical skills development.
The latest cohort received training in solar installation, electrical installation, makeup and beauty, as well as toiletries and soap production.
“Empowering people is one of the most effective ways to drive sustainable development. These graduates now have the skills to build businesses, create jobs and make meaningful contributions to their communities,” Thomas further said.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Field of Skills and Dreams, Omowale Ogunrinde, disclosed that 399 applications were received, with 100 unemployed youths aged 35 and below selected after a competitive screening process.
Participants underwent three weeks of intensive vocational and entrepreneurship training, while also receiving transportation support, meals and business starter packs to enable them begin their enterprises immediately.
Ogunrinde added that beneficiaries would receive post-training support, including mentorship, business monitoring and access to additional equipment, cash grants and free registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission for those who demonstrate business growth within six months.
Representing the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Patrick Egbede, commended the partnership, describing it as a significant contribution to Governor Bassey Otu’s agenda of reducing unemployment through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Esther Emmanuel Etem, described the programme as life-changing, saying it has equipped participants with practical skills to build sustainable businesses and create opportunities for others.
