Introduction

The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) has been at the forefront of fostering entrepreneurship in Nigeria through its LiveWIRE program. Launched in 2003, this Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative is designed to empower young entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and training to create sustainable businesses. By focusing on health, education, and economic growth sectors, Shell’s LiveWIRE program has become a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs across the nation.

Program Highlights

• Providing business development training to help participants build entrepreneurial skills.
• Offering startup grants and funding opportunities to support new ventures.
• Mentorship programs to guide young entrepreneurs through business challenges.

Key Achievements

• Since its inception in 2003, the LiveWIRE program has trained over 7,000 young entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
• More than 1,000 small businesses have been established with support from the program.
• LiveWIRE beneficiaries have contributed significantly to local economies, creating jobs and fostering innovation in their communities.

Looking Ahead

Shell’s commitment to entrepreneurship through the LiveWIRE program continues to grow. By focusing on sectors such as health and education, the initiative is not only creating economic opportunities but also addressing critical social challenges in Nigeria.

For more information about the Shell LiveWIRE program and its success stories, visit the official Shell Nigeria website or follow their social media channels to stay updated on their impactful work.

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Education and leadership development are crucial for Nigeria’s future, and one organization at the forefront of empowering youth in these areas is LEAP Africa. Founded by social entrepreneur Ndidi Nwuneli, LEAP Africa focuses on nurturing the potential of young Nigerians, instilling leadership skills, and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through its innovative education programs, LEAP Africa has positively impacted thousands of young people across Nigeria, equipping them with the skills needed to drive change in their communities and beyond.

Background and Mission of LEAP Africa

LEAP Africa, which stands for Leadership, Effectiveness, Accountability, and Professionalism, was founded in 2002 with a mission to inspire, empower, and equip young people to become leaders in their communities. Ndidi Nwuneli recognized that Nigeria’s youth needed guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to develop their potential. With this vision, she created an organization that provides training, resources, and mentorship programs tailored to Nigerian youth, addressing critical issues such as leadership, ethics, and social responsibility.

Key Programs and Initiatives

LEAP Africa offers a range of programs designed to address various aspects of youth empowerment, from leadership training to entrepreneurship development. Some of its notable programs include:

• The Youth Leadership Program (YLP): This program targets young Nigerians between the ages of 16 and 30, teaching them essential leadership and life skills. Through workshops, mentorship, and real-world projects, participants learn the principles of effective leadership and gain the confidence to make a positive impact in their communities.
• LEAD Camp for Girls: Focused on empowering young girls, LEAD Camp provides mentorship, career guidance, and leadership training. The program addresses the unique challenges girls face, particularly in terms of gender equality and access to education, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
• Social Innovators Program: This program supports young entrepreneurs and innovators by providing training, mentorship, and access to funding. Participants develop and scale solutions to social issues, ranging from education and health to environmental sustainability, empowering them to create change within their communities.

Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Reach

LEAP Africa has faced several challenges in its mission to empower Nigerian youth, including limited funding, infrastructure challenges, and cultural perceptions that sometimes limit the role of youth in leadership. However, through strategic partnerships with corporations, NGOs, and international organizations, LEAP Africa has been able to expand its reach and impact. By collaborating with local schools, community leaders, and government bodies, the organization has built a strong support network that helps it reach more youth across Nigeria.

One of LEAP Africa’s significant achievements is its ability to adapt to the digital age, using online platforms to reach young Nigerians even in remote areas. This adaptability has been crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing the organization to continue providing resources and training to youth across the country.

Impact on Nigerian Youth and Communities

The impact of LEAP Africa’s programs can be seen in the success stories of its alumni, many of whom have gone on to start businesses, lead community initiatives, and become advocates for positive change. Through its programs, LEAP Africa has not only empowered individuals but also fostered a culture of responsibility and community engagement among young Nigerians. Graduates of LEAP’s programs often serve as role models, inspiring others to take on leadership roles and contribute to Nigeria’s development.

LEAP Africa’s initiatives have also contributed to improved educational outcomes and economic opportunities, particularly for women and girls. By addressing issues such as gender inequality, access to education, and youth unemployment, the organization has helped create a more inclusive and resilient society.

A Vision for the Future

Ndidi Nwuneli and LEAP Africa remain committed to expanding their reach, aiming to empower even more young Nigerians in the coming years. The organization plans to launch additional programs that address emerging challenges, such as climate change and digital literacy, ensuring that Nigerian youth are prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Nwuneli’s vision is for a Nigeria where every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential, drive positive change, and build a better future for the nation.

Conclusion

LEAP Africa’s work is a testament to the transformative power of education and leadership development. By investing in Nigerian youth and providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed, LEAP Africa is paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous Nigeria. Ndidi Nwuneli’s dedication to empowering the next generation is inspiring, showing that with the right support and guidance, young Nigerians can become leaders who positively impact their communities and the country at large.

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In today’s digital age, technology skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, yet Nigeria faces a significant gap in digital skills across its workforce. Addressing this gap requires visionary leaders committed to equipping young Nigerians with essential tech skills. One such leader is Iyinoluwa Samuel, founder of the technology bootcamp Future Ready, which trains youth in coding, software development, and data science. Through this bootcamp, Iyinoluwa has empowered countless young Nigerians, preparing them for high-demand careers in technology and positioning Nigeria as a growing tech hub on the global stage.

Background and Vision

Iyinoluwa Samuel, a tech entrepreneur with a background in computer science, recognized early on the transformative potential of technology to drive economic change in Nigeria. Having worked with both local and international tech companies, he became acutely aware of the skills gap within Nigeria’s workforce. His vision for Future Ready is to make high-quality tech training accessible to Nigerians from all backgrounds, enabling youth to seize new career opportunities and contribute to Nigeria’s digital economy.

Key Programs at Future Ready

Future Ready offers a comprehensive curriculum, with a focus on practical skills that prepare students for real-world applications. Key programs include:

• Coding and Programming Courses: Future Ready provides in-depth training in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS, equipping students with the foundation they need to pursue careers in software development.
• Data Science and Analytics: The bootcamp offers specialized courses in data science, teaching students how to analyze and interpret data, an essential skill in today’s data-driven economy.
• Entrepreneurship and Tech Startups: Beyond technical skills, Future Ready offers workshops on entrepreneurship, encouraging students to explore their own tech startups and innovations.

Achievements and Recognition

Since its inception, Future Ready has gained widespread recognition for its impact on tech education and workforce development in Nigeria. Notable achievements include:

• Tech Education Award: Future Ready received the National Tech Education Award for its commitment to skill development and its positive impact on Nigeria’s tech workforce.
• Over 5,000 Graduates: The bootcamp has trained over 5,000 students, with many graduates securing high-paying jobs in tech and starting their own successful businesses.
• Partnerships with Global Tech Firms: Collaborations with companies like Google and Microsoft have enabled Future Ready to offer industry-relevant training, internships, and job placements for graduates.

Challenges and Perseverance

Running a tech bootcamp in Nigeria poses challenges, including limited funding, infrastructure issues, and occasional public misconceptions about tech careers. However, Iyinoluwa’s dedication to his mission has driven him to persevere, securing grants, building partnerships, and promoting Future Ready’s vision across Nigeria. His resilience and determination have helped the bootcamp grow, expanding its reach and impact on Nigerian youth.

Impact on Nigerian Youth and the Tech Ecosystem

Future Ready has had a transformative impact on Nigerian youth, equipping them with skills that open doors to careers in the high-demand tech industry. By providing coding, data science, and entrepreneurship training, Future Ready has not only increased employability but also empowered youth to create their own job opportunities, contributing to Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. The program has helped bridge the digital divide, encouraging more young Nigerians to engage in the digital economy and positioning Nigeria as a tech talent hub in Africa.

A Vision for the Future

Iyinoluwa Samuel envisions a Nigeria where all youth have access to digital skills training, enabling them to thrive in the modern economy. He plans to expand Future Ready to reach more regions across Nigeria, particularly underserved areas, and introduce new courses in emerging tech fields such as AI and blockchain. His goal is to make Nigeria a leader in digital innovation, with a workforce equipped to drive growth and economic development through technology.

Conclusion

Through Future Ready, Iyinoluwa Samuel is creating a pathway for Nigerian youth to succeed in the tech industry, bridging the skills gap and fostering a digitally savvy workforce. His commitment to tech education and his vision for a digitally empowered Nigeria have transformed lives and strengthened Nigeria’s position in the global tech landscape. Iyinoluwa’s journey is an inspiring example of how tech education can be a force for economic and social change, providing young Nigerians with the tools they need to build a brighter future.

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In Nigeria, climate activism and sustainable agriculture have found a dedicated advocate in Adenike Oladosu, an environmentalist committed to promoting eco-friendly farming practices and climate resilience. As a youth climate activist and founder of I Lead Climate, Oladosu works tirelessly to address the effects of climate change on Nigeria’s agriculture sector, while empowering farmers to adopt sustainable practices that protect the environment and ensure food security. Her work not only highlights the importance of environmental sustainability but also encourages Nigerians to take action for a healthier, greener future.

Background and Inspiration

Adenike Oladosu, born and raised in Nigeria, became involved in climate activism at a young age after observing the severe impact of climate change on local communities and agriculture. Her desire to create a positive environmental impact led her to establish I Lead Climate, an initiative that educates and mobilizes young people to advocate for climate action, with a focus on sustainable farming practices. Oladosu’s approach combines hands-on workshops, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement to drive lasting change.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Through I Lead Climate, Oladosu has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and raising awareness about climate change. Some of the key programs include:

• Climate Education Workshops: Oladosu conducts workshops in rural areas to educate farmers on sustainable agriculture, soil preservation, and water conservation techniques.
• Tree Planting Campaigns: Recognizing the importance of reforestation in combating climate change, she organizes tree-planting events that involve community members, encouraging environmental responsibility.
• Advocacy and Policy Influence: Oladosu actively participates in climate advocacy at the national and international levels, speaking at events like the UN Climate Change Conference (COP) to bring attention to the impact of climate change on Africa’s agriculture sector.

Awards and Recognition

Adenike Oladosu’s dedication to environmental activism and sustainable agriculture has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. Some of her awards and accomplishments include:

• UN Young Champion of the Earth Nominee: She was nominated for her outstanding contributions to environmental conservation and youth-led climate action.
• Green Climate Award: Oladosu received this award in recognition of her commitment to environmental sustainability and climate awareness initiatives in Nigeria.
• Keynote Speaker at International Forums: As a respected climate activist, she has been invited to speak at global platforms, including COP meetings, where she advocates for climate resilience and sustainable farming in Africa.

Challenges in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture

Oladosu’s journey has not been without challenges. Working in rural Nigeria, she often faces logistical difficulties, limited funding, and resistance from traditional farming communities unfamiliar with sustainable practices. However, her determination to create lasting environmental change has driven her to continue her work, adapting her programs to meet the needs of different communities and demonstrating the long-term benefits of sustainable farming.

Impact on Nigerian Communities

Through her work, Oladosu has educated countless Nigerian farmers on the importance of sustainable agriculture. Her efforts have helped increase crop resilience, reduce soil degradation, and improve water management practices. By involving young Nigerians in climate activism, she has also fostered a culture of environmental responsibility, inspiring a new generation to take action against climate change.

A Vision for a Greener Future

Adenike Oladosu envisions a future where Nigerian agriculture is resilient to climate change, sustainable, and economically empowering for farmers. She continues to work towards this vision by expanding her programs to reach more communities, advocating for policy changes that support eco-friendly farming, and inspiring young Nigerians to join the fight for climate action.

Conclusion

Adenike Oladosu’s contributions to sustainable agriculture and climate activism are a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can make. Her dedication to protecting the environment and empowering communities with sustainable practices has positioned her as a leader in Nigeria’s environmental movement. Oladosu’s story encourages all Nigerians to embrace sustainability and take action for a healthier, greener planet.

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Nigeria’s technology landscape has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, with entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts leading the charge towards digital transformation. One of the trailblazers in this movement is Bosun Tijani, co-founder and CEO of the Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) in Lagos. CcHub is Nigeria’s first open living lab and pre-incubation space designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and creativity. Through CcHub, Tijani has built a platform that empowers tech startups, facilitates access to resources, and nurtures talent, transforming Nigeria into a burgeoning tech ecosystem on the African continent.

Background and Inspiration

Bosun Tijani, with a background in engineering and technology, co-founded CcHub in 2010 with the vision to bridge the gap between technology and social impact. Inspired by a desire to harness tech for positive change, Tijani envisioned a space where Nigeria’s brightest minds could come together to develop solutions to everyday challenges. This vision led to the creation of CcHub, a space that has become a launchpad for tech startups and a catalyst for Nigeria’s digital innovation.

Key Services Offered by CcHub

CcHub offers a range of resources, programs, and facilities designed to support tech entrepreneurs and innovators in Nigeria. Key services include:

• Startup Incubation and Acceleration: CcHub provides early-stage startups with mentorship, funding opportunities, and technical support, helping them grow and scale their businesses.
• Open Living Lab and Community Workspace: The hub offers a collaborative workspace where tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs can access high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities.
• Training and Capacity Building Programs: CcHub offers workshops and training sessions on topics such as software development, data science, and business management, equipping participants with essential skills.

Achievements and Recognition

CcHub’s contributions to Nigeria’s tech industry have garnered widespread recognition for its role in fostering innovation and economic growth. Notable achievements include:

• Launch of Startups and Social Impact Projects: CcHub has incubated over 120 startups, many of which have gone on to make significant impacts in sectors such as health, education, and finance.
• Partnerships with Global Tech Companies: Collaborations with companies like Google, Facebook, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have allowed CcHub to expand its resources, bringing international expertise and funding to Nigerian tech startups.
• Africa’s Leading Innovation Hub: CcHub is recognized as one of Africa’s most successful tech hubs, inspiring the establishment of similar innovation spaces across the continent.

Challenges and Resilience

Building and sustaining an innovation hub in Nigeria comes with challenges, including limited infrastructure, fluctuating funding, and competition for talent. Despite these obstacles, Tijani’s commitment to CcHub’s mission has driven him to overcome these hurdles, continually expanding the hub’s reach and impact. Through strategic partnerships, CcHub has grown its capacity to support more startups and expand its programs, making it a resilient force in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

Impact on Nigeria’s Tech Industry and Youth Empowerment

CcHub has made a transformative impact on Nigeria’s tech industry by creating an environment where innovation can thrive. By offering resources and mentorship, CcHub has empowered young Nigerians to turn their ideas into viable businesses, generating jobs and contributing to economic growth. The hub’s focus on social impact projects has also led to the development of tech solutions that address critical challenges in healthcare, education, and governance, improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

A Vision for Africa’s Digital Future

Bosun Tijani envisions a future where technology serves as a force for social good across Africa. He plans to continue expanding CcHub’s reach, offering support to more tech innovators and launching programs that foster digital skills among Nigerian youth. His goal is to position Nigeria as a leader in African tech innovation, building a digital economy that is inclusive, sustainable, and impactful.

Conclusion

Bosun Tijani’s work with CcHub has transformed Nigeria’s digital landscape, providing a platform for innovation, collaboration, and empowerment. By nurturing tech talent and supporting social impact projects, CcHub has become a driving force behind Nigeria’s tech industry. Tijani’s journey shows the power of inclusive tech spaces in creating positive change, inspiring a future where technology is harnessed for the benefit of communities and economies across Africa.

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