The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to working more closely with the European Union (EU) to strengthen digital skills development under its Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
The Director General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, made this known during a courtesy visit to the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, at the EU Mission in Abuja.
Speaking during the meeting, General Nafiu stressed that continuous training and capacity development for NYSC personnel are essential to improving the Scheme's operations. He noted that the organisation is prepared to partner with the EU in organising seminars, workshops and other professional development initiatives that will enhance staff competence and service delivery.
The NYSC Director General also acknowledged the European Union's consistent investment in programmes that promote youth development, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment across Nigeria.
He explained that the SAED initiative was introduced in 2012 to address the rising unemployment rate among Nigerian graduates by providing Corps Members with practical vocational and entrepreneurial skills. According to him, the programme is designed to encourage self-employment while enabling beneficiaries to establish businesses that can create jobs for others.
General Nafiu stated that thousands of Corps Members have benefited from the initiative since its launch, with many becoming successful entrepreneurs and employers of labour. He added that the programme has continued to receive grants and support from several development partners.
Responding, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, said the EU collaborates with implementing partners to develop and execute projects that support national development across different sectors.
He commended the NYSC leadership for institutionalising the SAED programme, describing it as a forward-looking initiative capable of making a significant contribution to Nigeria's development if adequately supported.
Mignot noted that the European Union's development priorities include digital technology, youth and women empowerment, child development, agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare and other sectors that drive inclusive economic growth.
He also revealed that several European financial institutions have begun operations in Nigeria to improve access to funding for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
According to the ambassador, inadequate access to finance remains one of the biggest obstacles facing SME operators in the country. He added that the European Union continues to support young Nigerians through educational and academic programmes aimed at improving their employability and easing their entry into the labour market.
DIP CONNECT ONLINE NEWS reports that the renewed commitment by both organisations is expected to expand opportunities for digital skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and sustainable youth employment in Nigeria.
Adeola Kunle
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