By: Aishatu Yakubu Shalangwa
The International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with key government ministries and social partners, commemorated World Youth Skills Day 2026 at the United Nations House, Abuja, with a firm commitment to equipping Nigerian youth with the competencies needed for the future work.
The event, held on Wednesday 22 July ,2026 under the global theme “Skills for a Shared Future ” focused on Strengthening Employment and Employability Systems in Nigeria, brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders including the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE), the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigerian Youth Employment Action Plan (NIYEAP) secretariat, as well as the National Council on Climate Change(NCCC)
The gathering aimed to accelerate progress towards the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and the principles enshrined in the ILO Convention No. 193, ensuring that the young people's skills translate into decent work, productive employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
In her keynote address, ,ILO Country Director Ms. Vanessa Phala, emphasized that sustained investment in skills development is critical to reducing unemployment. Represented by Ms. Inviolata Chinyangarara, ILO Senior Specialist on Workers Activities, Phala noted that technological advancement, digitalisation, and the green transition are reshaping the labour market, making technical, digital, entrepreneurial, and green skills imperative for young people .
"As the world of workers continues to evolve, it means employers, workers, organizations, private sector, training institutions, development partners and young people themselves have to work together to create pathways and opportunities to ensure decent work and decent livelihoods for young people. No institution can achieve this alone, it is a whole house approach." she added.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing skills development as a catalyst for job creation. The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammed Dingyadi, represented by the Director of Skills Development and Certification, Dr. Tiza Shaakaa, commended the International Labour Organisation (ILO)and all collaborative partners for organising the timely events.
He stressed that the Ministry recognises youths employment and skills development as central to Nigeria's economic transformation agenda. He Further reaffirmed that the ministry remains committed to creating an enabling environment where young Nigerians can acquire relevant skills, access employment opportunities and participate meaningfully in national development hence the need for young people to possess the right skills that align with the need of the rapidly changing market,he added.
Meanwhile,the Chairperson of Nigeria Labour Congress, youth committee, Comrade Martha John acknowledged the challenges of informality, underdevelopment,and policy gaps that continue to undermine the potentials of young people .
She also reaffirmed the Unions commitment to advocating social dialogue, strengthening institutional coordination and ensuring that skills development is matched with the real opportunity obtainable, while calling the government, employers and development partners to prioritise Youth's perspectives in the renewal of the National Youth Policy, the redesigning of the Nigeria Youth Employment Action plan and the implementation of national employment growth .
"To our young people, the NLC stands with you in demanding policies that deliver real opportunity in shaping Nigeria's just transition and in ensuring that no youth is left behind in the digital and green economy."
Following goodwill messages from representatives of different organisations, a high-level panel discussion explored strategies for bridging the skills gap and promoting decent work.
The session was followed by an interactive "Youth Voices" session, which allowed young participants to share their perspectives and engage directly with policymakers during a question-and-answer session.
The programme also included an ILO consultative forum aimed at strengthening partnerships and refining strategies to address youth unemployment. The day concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing a unified commitment to shaping an inclusive and sustainable future for Nigerian youths.
