Over 1,200 young people in Delta State just graduated from OVL Foundation’s 9ja Youth Drive 2025, walking away with life-changing skills, starter packs, and for one lucky group, a ₦1 million prize to kickstart their business dreams after gaining practical skills designed to break the cycle of unemployment and foster self-reliance.
The initiative, held in commemoration of International Youth Day, is part of a nationwide campaign spanning Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and targeting young people — particularly women and vulnerable groups — with high-demand vocational and digital training.
Speaking at the Delta State graduation ceremony, OVL Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, described the programme as a catalyst for lasting change.
“Our vision is to equip Nigerian youths, especially women and children, with the tools and opportunities to live productive, economically independent lives. Every skill learned here is a door to a sustainable future,” she said.
Participants underwent hands-on training in digital literacy, vocational trades, catering, soap and paint production, makeup artistry, and gele tying. The event also featured a Talent and Innovation Showcase, where Group 8 emerged victorious, securing a ₦1 million prize to launch their business venture.
In addition to the grand prize, every graduate received starter packs, certificates of completion, and awards for excellence in their respective fields — a move organisers say is crucial for ensuring participants can immediately translate their training into income.
Omobolanle emphasised that the project’s success was made possible through strategic partnerships with local and international organisations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“Partnership is at the heart of sustainable development. Through collaboration, we are giving our youths not just skills, but the confidence to thrive,” she added.
The 9ja Youth Drive 2025 has been widely praised for its grassroots reach and alignment with International Youth Day’s global mission of spotlighting youth engagement for development. With its focus on skills, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, the programme continues to affirm the OVL Foundation’s role as a driving force for youth-led nation-building in Nigeria.