Last month, our Executive Director, Oreoluwa Lesi, had the distinct honour of speaking on a high-level panel at the official flag-off ceremony of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0 in Abuja.
Launched in 2021, the NJFP is a Federal Government initiative supported by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme to tackle youth unemployment. The programme provides a 12-month, fully paid fellowship placing young graduates in reputable organisations nationwide—an intervention that has already matched over 13,000 fellows with roles across public and private sectors.
During the event, Lesi joined an insightful panel alongside Maryam Shehu Muhammed, Uzoma Nwagba and renowned creative leader Jude Abaga, with moderation by innovator Iyinoluwa Aboyeji.
Although the panel focused on fellowships as a launchpad for jobs and enterprise creation, the discussion organically expanded into technology’s crucial role in shaping employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for young Nigerians. Lesi highlighted the persistent under-representation of women in STEM fields and explained its broader implications for national development, innovation ecosystems, and economic competitiveness. She also expressed delight at the strong presence of female fellows in attendance—a positive signal for the country’s future STEM landscape.
Reflecting on the event, Lesi shared:
“The youth are truly one of Nigeria’s greatest superpowers. We must continue investing in them to build an educated, skilled, digitally confident generation equipped to power our economy. When young people are supported with opportunities, mentorship, and access, the nation moves forward.”
The ceremony was attended by notable leaders and development partners—including Gautier Mignot, Elsie Attafuah, Maryam Uwais, Motunrayo Opayinka, and Ademulegun Olowojoba—whose collective commitment underscores the national importance of youth empowerment.
For W.TEC, the event aligns deeply with our mission: equipping young women and girls with the digital skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in the modern economy. As we continue to advocate for inclusive technology ecosystems, we remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s digital future is one where women are fully represented, valued, and empowered.