To amplify youth innovation and drive sustainable employment in the Niger Delta, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) participated in the 15th Career Day Conference, organized by The Bridge Leadership Foundation (TBLF) on August 2, 2025, in Calabar, Cross Rivers State.
Held under the theme “New Horizons: Bridging the Youth Employability and Entrepreneurship Gap,” the conference convened thousands of young changemakers, entrepreneurs, educators, and development partners to explore actionable strategies for future-proofing careers and scaling youth-led enterprises in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
Empowering Youth for a Resilient Future
Representing PIND’s Executive Director, Mr. Sam Ogbemi Daibo, at the event, Mr. Patrick Ekpe, PIND’s Youth Employment Pathways (YEP) Manager, delivered a compelling plenary presentation titled, “Beyond Survival: Building Resilient Careers and Businesses in a Disruptive World.”
Ekpe emphasized that building resilience goes beyond technical training—it requires adaptability, mentorship, access to networks, and a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
“We are equipping young people not just with technical skills, but with a mindset of possibility,” said Ekpe. “When youth are trained, mentored, and supported to become job creators, the ripple effects strengthen entire communities.”He also shared success stories from PIND’s 15-year track record in youth development, particularly through the YEP program, which has empowered over 11,000 youth across the Niger Delta with market-aligned skills and enterprise development support.
Aligning with the Future of Work
PIND’s participation at the conference reinforced its strategic focus on youth as critical drivers of peace, innovation, and inclusive growth in the region. The event’s breakout sessions and panel discussions explored pressing issues such as:
- The Future of Work: Adapting to AI, remote jobs, and emerging career trends;
- Stay, Invest, or Japa? Making the Right Money Moves for Your Business.
These conversations mirror PIND’s commitment to helping youth navigate dynamic labour markets and technological disruptions by anchoring development interventions in real-world demand.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration through NDLink
In addition to sharing practical youth development insights, the event served as a platform to spotlight NDLink, PIND’s flagship knowledge-sharing and collaboration hub. NDLink connects youth, policy actors, and development professionals with tools, resources, and data that drive informed action in the Niger Delta.
Sustaining Momentum for Scalable Impact
As PIND advances its Phase IV (2025–2029) strategy, youth empowerment remains central. The organization continues to scale evidence-based models, foster multi-sector partnerships, and support young people in transitioning from vulnerability to opportunity.
PIND’s presence in the 2025 Career Day Conference reaffirmed its role as a regional catalyst for inclusive growth and a champion for youth-driven innovation. By engaging with the next generation of entrepreneurs and workforce leaders, PIND is helping to build a Niger Delta where every young person has the tools, networks, and confidence to thrive.
