The programme targets young Nigerians aged 16 to 35 and is designed to equip participants with practical skills, confidence, and exposure to succeed in today’s dynamic workplace and entrepreneurial environment. Since its inception in 2017, #YouthEmpowered has reached over 70,000 young people across the country.
The 2026 edition is delivered in partnership with Fate Foundation, with funding support from The Coca-Cola HBC Foundation. NBC acknowledged both organisations for their continued collaboration, emphasizing that the programme’s expanding reach and impact are a result of shared expertise, resources, and a collective commitment to youth development.
Speaking about her experience at the University of Lagos session, participant Waliat Adedogun, who won a cash grant through the Director’s Grant Pitch Competition to support her small business, said:
“#YouthEmpowered gave me more than training, it gave me clarity and confidence. Winning the grant means I can finally take my business idea from a dream into something real. I now feel prepared to build, grow, and create opportunities not just for myself, but for others too.”
NBC stressed that empowering young people is central to Nigeria’s social and economic progress. The programme bridges the gap between education and employability by providing hands-on learning, real-world insights, and access to career-shaping opportunities.
The 2025 edition recorded significant outcomes, including six-month paid internships for ten participants across NBC locations in Lagos, Ibadan, Asejire, and Challawa, as well as sponsorship for three participants to attend an intensive culinary training programme, each receiving ₦1 million to launch their businesses.
Building on this foundation, the 2026 programme will expand to additional tertiary institutions, including the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), following a successful 2025 tour that reached seven cities nationwide.
Participants will receive training across modules focused on Business Life Skills, Adaptability and Resilience, Financial Literacy, Customer Service and Communication, Sales and Negotiation Skills, and Workplace Ethics. Breakout workshops on Business Planning, Project Management, and Time Management will complement the Director’s Grant Pitch Competition, where participants can secure funding to turn their business ideas into reality.
NBC’s People and Culture team will also be present throughout the programme to identify outstanding talent for potential future roles within the company, reinforcing the link between skills development, employability, and long-term career growth.