Businesses Need Digitally Skilled Youth to Drive Growth, Says NECA
Employers urge stronger investment in technical, digital and entrepreneurial skills to boost productivity and economic competitiveness
By GLEBM News
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has called for greater investment in digital, technical and entrepreneurial skills, saying Nigeria’s long-term economic growth depends on building a workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern businesses.
The employers’ body made the call during the 2026 World Youth Skills Day celebration held at the United Nations House, Abuja, where industry leaders, government officials and development partners discussed strategies for preparing young Nigerians for the future of work.
Speaking on behalf of the Director-General of NECA, Ms. Jennifer Yelwa said the private sector is increasingly seeking workers equipped with practical, technology-driven and innovation-focused skills capable of improving productivity and supporting business expansion.
According to her, the changing nature of work requires a shift away from traditional approaches to skills development towards programmes that prepare young people for emerging industries and evolving workplace demands.”Bridging Nigeria’s workforce skills gap through strategic investments in technical, digital and entrepreneurial training is critical to improving innovation, business productivity and sustainable socio-economic development,” she said.
Yelwa noted that rapid technological advancement, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the growth of green industries are redefining the competencies employers require from job seekers.
She stressed that businesses can only remain competitive when they have access to a workforce with relevant and adaptable skills.
The NECA representative therefore called for stronger collaboration between employers, government institutions, training providers and development partners to ensure that educational curricula reflect labour market realities.
According to her, employers must play a more active role in curriculum design, internships, apprenticeships and workplace learning so that graduates leave school with practical experience alongside academic qualifications.She also advocated greater investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as an important pathway for producing industry-ready professionals.
Industry stakeholders at the event observed that sectors such as information technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, digital services, e-commerce, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence continue to create new employment opportunities but require specialised skills that many job seekers currently lack.
The discussions also highlighted entrepreneurship as an important driver of economic growth, urging greater support for young innovators capable of building businesses that generate employment and expand Nigeria’s productive capacity.
Participants agreed that strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors would help bridge existing workforce gaps while improving Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy.
The event concluded with renewed calls for sustained investments in digital literacy, innovation, green skills and entrepreneurship, with stakeholders maintaining that preparing young Nigerians for the future of work remains essential to achieving inclusive economic growth and long-term business sustainability
