In a transformative move toward inclusive youth development, the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a bold initiative designed to equip young Nigerians with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing global economy.
Officially unveiled on March 24, 2025, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja and represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, NiYA represents a key pillar in the nation’s strategy to harness the potential of its vibrant youth population.
What Is NiYA?
The Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) is a digital and inclusive youth empowerment platform designed to support millions of Nigerian youth with practical skills, mentorship, entrepreneurship support, and leadership development opportunities. The Academy operates on the principle that skills and opportunities must be accessible to all, regardless of location or background.
NiYA is anchored on three core pillars:
1. Education & Skills Development
NiYA provides world-class training in high-demand skills, from digital literacy and technical competencies to entrepreneurship and creative industries, ensuring that young Nigerians are competitive and job-ready in the modern economy.
2. Economic Empowerment
The Academy connects young people with opportunities to start and grow businesses, find meaningful work, or join the global “gig economy.” Initiatives under this pillar include mentorship, access to funding, and programs like NiYA Startup Pitch 2.0, which offers ₦100 million in funding for innovative tech startups led by Nigerian youth.
3. Leadership & Civic Engagement
Beyond skills and jobs, NiYA nurtures the next generation of leaders by providing platforms for young Nigerians to participate in governance, policy discussions, and community development, helping to forge a sense of civic responsibility and national contribution.
How NiYA Works: Key Platforms
The NiYA ecosystem comprises several interconnected components:
NiYA Academy
A structured learning portal offering over 58 courses covering a wide range of skills, from technical and digital competencies to entrepreneurship and leadership. Thousands of Nigerian youths are already engaging in courses, with certificates being issued to learners as they complete modules.
NiYA Community
A digital community space where young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds connect, collaborate, share opportunities, and support each other’s growth and innovation journeys. This community aims to be a hub of collaboration and purposeful engagement for youth across the country.
NiYA Gigs
This initiative connects skilled youth with real freelance opportunities, helping them earn income through remote or online work. Whether you are a writer, developer, graphic designer, or creative professional, NiYA Gigs helps turn your talent into tangible income, reducing unemployment and promoting economic independence.
Ambassador Program — Youth Leadership at the Grassroots
To deepen engagement and reach young Nigerians at the grassroots, NiYA launched the NiYA Ambassador Programme, appointing youth leaders in each Local Government Area to promote federal youth initiatives and connect their communities with opportunities. This move strengthens inclusion and ensures that young people across the nation are informed and empowered.
Impact Targets: Millions of Lives, Thousands of Futures
NiYA’s ambitious plans aim to empower up to 7 million Nigerian youths over the next few years, equipping them with at least two marketable skills to unlock employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. It also targets the creation of millions of jobs and the closing of the skills gap between education and the labor market.
Why NiYA Matters
• Youth Empowerment at Scale: NiYA offers millions of opportunities, training, and engagement pathways for Nigerian youth.
• Economic Transformation: Through funding, mentorship, and startup incubation, NiYA contributes to national wealth creation and job generation.
• Global Competitiveness: With world-class training and digital skills development, NiYA positions Nigerian youth to compete on the global stage.
• Community and Leadership: Through initiatives like the Ambassador Programme and civic engagement training, NiYA builds leaders who can positively shape society.
Getting Involved
NiYA is open to all young Nigerians who want to learn, earn, and lead. Interested youth are encouraged to visit www.niya.gov.ng to register, participate in courses, join the community, and access gigs and startup opportunities.
Conclusion: Investing in Nigeria’s Future Today
The Nigerian Youth Academy stands as a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to youth development through strategic, coordinated, and impactful interventions. By equipping young Nigerians with market-relevant skills, meaningful connections, and opportunities for economic participation, NiYA is transforming potential into real progress for individuals, communities, and the nation.
The Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring and Delivery), Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, assured Nigerian youth, that this is more than a platform, it’s a launchpad for success.
