In a significant move to address youth unemployment in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has proudly launched its 5th phase in Akwa Ibom State. The launch was formalized during a grant signing ceremony in Uyo, solidifying Akwa Ibom’s role as one of the states joining PIND’s initiative to boost economic activities and foster job creation across the region.
The cordial atmosphere at the ceremony highlighted the robust partnership between PIND and the Akwa Ibom state government, facilitated through the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Center (Ibom-LED). This event underscored PIND’s unwavering commitment to working with state governments to adopt its training models.
The partnership with Ibom-LED aims to promote the NDYEP end-to-end model, integrating vocational training with job placement to ensure holistic skill development for youth. This strategic approach works closely with government institutions to address the region’s needs.
Recall that in December 2023, PIND signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ibom-LED, laying the groundwork for implementing the Youth Employment Pathways (YEP) program. This initiative aims to reach more young people in Akwa Ibom state by promoting the PIND Niger Delta Youth Employment Pathways (NDYEP) model and framework, fostering technical/soft skill training, leadership, conflict resolution, and entrepreneurial development programs for youth advancement and socio-economic growth in Akwa Ibom State and the wider Niger Delta Region.
PIND acknowledges Ibom-LED’s fulfillment of all requirements for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, showcasing expertise in youth development as a registered company. The intervention is expected to invigorate economic activities in Akwa Ibom State, generating job opportunities, attracting investment, and fostering peace—an essential foundation for business prosperity in the Niger Delta.
Dr. Effiong Essien, Program Director at PIND, emphasized the significance of empowering youth in the state through the NDYEP end-to-end model. With this approach, PIND aims to equip young marginalized men, women, and People living with disabilities (PWDs) with market-relevant skills, facilitating their transition into sustainable employment or entrepreneurial ventures.
“In the past two years, we’ve invested over 100 million naira in Akwa Ibom State. The state’s steadfast commitment and enthusiastic reception to our projects have been exceptional, fueling our eagerness to expand our efforts,” Dr. Effiong remarked.
Mr. Patrick Ekpe, the YEP Manager, provided further insights into the program’s impact and future plans for scaling youth development within the region, highlighting successes in training and linking youths to employment or entrepreneurial opportunities. He added that Akwa Ibom’s selection was strategic, given its high youth unemployment rate and strong demand for skilled labor.
The formal agreement, signed by Dr. Effiong Essien of PIND Foundation and Mr. Ime Uwah of Ibom-LED, signifies a milestone in collaborative efforts to implement the YEP program. Other partners present at the 2024 Akwa Ibom YEP grant signing included Azure Gold Ltd for Building Construction, Micafotoy Tech Ltd for Digital Skills Training, and Start Innovation Hub Ltd for ICT. The 5th phase of implementation in the state aims to train 200 youths and connect them with job opportunities in key sectors.
The Commissioner for Trade & Investment, Hon. John James, represented the Akwa Ibom State Governor and reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the initiative. Senior government officials, YEP partners, and selected youth applicants attended the ceremony.
PIND is dedicated to supporting the state government in empowering marginalized youths and fostering their transition to becoming employable and self-reliant individuals by aligning with the Akwa Ibom state government’s Arise agenda blueprint. With this partnership, PIND and its collaborators aim to impact the region’s economic landscape significantly, offering vital opportunities and support to the youth of Akwa Ibom State.
