The Ugwumba Leadership Centre for Africa has rounded off the 2025 edition of its SkillUp Training Programme, empowering thousands of young Nigerians with vocational skills, business knowledge and startup funding aimed at boosting youth entrepreneurship and tackling unemployment in the country.
This year’s edition continued the Centre’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most impactful youth development initiatives, attracting more than 6,000 participants to its virtual boot camp.
From this number, 200 candidates were selected for hands-on training in Pastries and Catering, Paint Making, Makeup and Gele Tying, and Food Processing and Packaging.
Following a rigorous assessment process, 50 outstanding participants emerged as finalists and received business startup grants to support the launch or expansion of their ventures, positioning them for long-term self-reliance.
Beneficiaries including Oluwa Esther Mosunmola and Ochong Peter expressed profound appreciation for the life-changing opportunity, noting that the programme had equipped them with the skills and confidence needed to begin their entrepreneurial journey.
They urged well-meaning Nigerians and the government to leverage the Centre’s work to reach millions of unemployed youths across the country.
President of the Ugwumba Leadership Centre for Africa, Chief Uche Nwosu, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to reducing unemployment by nurturing innovation, providing skill-based training and supporting young business owners with the necessary tools for growth.
He emphasized that the SkillUp Programme was designed to give young people a pathway out of poverty by equipping them with practical skills that translate directly into opportunities for wealth creation.
Chief Nwosu noted that the increasing demand for the programme highlights the eagerness of Nigerian youths to become self-reliant when provided with the right platforms.
He added that the Centre will continue to strengthen its mentorship models and expand its reach across rural and underserved communities, ensuring that no willing youth is left behind. According to him, the Centre’s long-term goal is to create a generation of job creators whose innovations will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Also speaking at the event, the Centre’s Director of Operations, Bibby Kala-Kala, emphasized that the initiative remains dedicated to helping African youths discover and showcase their God-given talents while contributing meaningfully to national development.
She explained that the programme’s success lies in its ability to transform raw potential into measurable economic output, which is why the Centre continually reviews and updates its curriculum to meet emerging market demands.
Kala-Kala added that beyond vocational training, the programme focuses on character building, discipline, and entrepreneurial leadership, empowering participants to function not just as skilled workers but as visionary business owners.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the Dream Builders Think Tank Scholarship Award by the Founder of the Fulfilment Empowerment Network, USA, Dr. Alisa Whyte, to six exceptional participants in recognition of their outstanding performance.
With its expanding network, strengthened international partnerships and growing impact, the Ugwumba SkillUp Programme is gradually emerging as a key driver of youth entrepreneurship and economic transformation in Nigeria and beyond
