The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) has partnered with the private sector to equip Nigerian youth with critical skills for the rapidly growing clean energy economy.
The collaboration aims to drive sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and bridge the widening skills gap in the nation’s energy transition phase.
Addressing Nigeria’s Energy Skills Gap
The initiative took flight during a courtesy visit by Mr. Opeyemi Awoyemi, Co-founder of Jobberman and Founder of hello.cv, to the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN. The discussion centered on Nigeria’s pressing energy needs, noting that over 85 million Nigerians still lack reliable electricity access. As investments pour into solar energy, mini-grids, smart metering, energy storage, and electric mobility, the country faces a shortage of indigenous professionals capable of deploying and maintaining these technologies.
To solve this, Awoyemi proposed a digital, competency-based model designed to train young Nigerians online, assess their technical capabilities, and link certified participants directly with hiring employers. This scalable solution will support the Ministry’s forthcoming Youth and Students in Innovation Initiative, strengthening the local workforce while tackling youth unemployment.
Government Commits to Indigenous Green Talent
Responding to the proposal, Dr. Udeh welcomed the partnership, emphasizing that human capital development is a core pillar of the Ministry’s mandate to leverage science and technology for national prosperity.
“Nigeria’s clean energy future must be powered by indigenous talent,” said Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN. “Investing in the skills of young Nigerians will not only reduce dependence on foreign expertise but also position the country as a competitive player in the global green economy.”
Aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda
The Minister stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in creating practical, technology-driven solutions that directly address industry demands. He noted that this collaboration directly aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritizes innovation, industrial development, and youth empowerment.
By fostering these strategic ties with industry leaders and innovators, FMIST continues to advance policies that accelerate technology adoption, commercialize research, and prepare Nigeria’s youth to thrive in the global knowledge and clean energy economy.
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