NACCIMA Marks World Youth Skills Day 2026, Calls for Greater Private Sector Investment in Youth Development
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has called for stronger private sector investment in youth skills development as Nigeria commemorates the 2026 World Youth Skills Day.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday to mark the global event themed “Skills for a Shared Future,” the association reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the gap between Nigeria’s growing youth population and the practical, market-driven skills required to promote inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship and decent employment.
NACCIMA National President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, said Nigeria’s youthful population remains one of its greatest economic assets, stressing that the country’s demographic advantage can only be fully realised through sustained investment in technical, digital, green and entrepreneurial skills.
According to him, Nigerian youths should be viewed as valuable contributors to national development rather than a challenge to be managed.
“As a Chamber movement representing businesses across every sector and every state, NACCIMA recognises that the private sector has both a direct stake and a critical role in equipping young Nigerians with the competencies required to thrive in today’s economy and the future workplace,” he said.
The association noted that this year’s theme reflects the growing need for young people to acquire not only technical expertise but also digital literacy, artificial intelligence readiness, green economy competencies and social-emotional skills to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
NACCIMA stated that its vision aligns with the need to build a Nigerian workforce that is competitive, adaptable and export-ready.
As part of activities marking the day, the association announced measures aimed at strengthening youth employability and enterprise development. These include reaffirming support for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) partnerships involving member chambers, training institutions and industries, as well as encouraging affiliate chambers across the country to expand mentorship, apprenticeship and internship opportunities for young Nigerians within their respective business communities.
The association reiterated that sustained collaboration between government, the private sector, educational institutions and development partners remains essential to equipping Nigerian youths with the skills needed to drive innovation, productivity and long-term national prosperity.
