Nigeria needs sharper skills to leap into the future. That was the message from Sebastine Obasi JMG, an integrated electro-mechanical solutions company, on World Youth Skills Day 2026. The company is calling for stronger collaboration between government, industries, and educational institutions to equip young Nigerians with future-ready skills that will drive innovation, enhance employability, and accelerate sustainable economic growth.
The call comes as World Youth Skills Day 2026 highlights the importance of equipping young people with technical, digital, artificial intelligence, green, and human skills needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic job market. Gloria Ibeziako, Chief Human Resources Officer at JMG, noted that preparing young people for the future requires deliberate investment in skills development and stronger partnerships between education and industry.
'The future of every economy depends on the quality of its people,' Ibeziako stated. 'As technology continues to reshape industries, we must ensure that young people are equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the digital, problem-solving, and collaborative skills that will enable them to compete and succeed anywhere in the world.'
Ibeziako added that while emerging technologies are transforming workplaces, they are also creating new opportunities for young people who are willing to embrace continuous learning and innovation. She urged businesses to take a more active role in developing the next generation of professionals, beyond creating jobs, by supporting practical learning through mentorship, workplace exposure, and technical training that bridge the gap between education and industry.
Businesses have a critical role to play in developing the next generation of professionals. Ibeziako noted that emerging technologies are transforming workplaces, creating new opportunities for young people who are willing to learn. To bridge the gap between education and industry, businesses like JMG are supporting practical learning through mentorship, workplace exposure, and technical training.
JMG has been at the forefront of promoting skills development in Nigeria, partnering with educational institutions to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. The company's commitment to skills development has been recognized globally, with Ibeziako being a vocal advocate for the importance of investing in human capital.
As the Nigerian economy continues to grow, the need for future-ready skills is more pressing than ever. Ibeziako's call for stronger collaboration between government, industries, and educational institutions is a timely reminder of the critical role that young people will play in driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria.