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Tag: Junior Achievement Nigeria

  • JAN to hold national forum on teaching entrepreneurship Thursday

    JAN to hold national forum on teaching entrepreneurship Thursday

    Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) is set to host an event aimed at reshaping how entrepreneurship is taught in schools, with teachers at the centre of the conversation.

    The event, tagged SET4LYF: National Convening on Teaching Entrepreneurship with a Focus on Teachers, will take place today.

    It will bring together educators, policymakers, and private sector partners to discuss practical strategies for integrating entrepreneurship into the classroom.

    Ahead of the event, JAN on Tuesday held a virtual media parley to brief reporters and stakeholders on the vision and objectives of the initiative.

    Speaking during the session, Country Director of SET4LYF, Mr. Olaolu Akogun , explained that the initiative—School-to-Work Educational Transitions for Long-Term Youth Fulfilment (SET4LYF), is designed to prepare Nigerian secondary school girls, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and persons with disabilities (PWDs) for the future of work, entrepreneurship, and higher education.

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    “We want to be inclusive, bridging the gap with this program. Inclusion is very important to us,” Akogun said. He noted that the program aims to reach participants across 31 states, with a deliberate inclusion target of 5 percent girls with disabilities and 10 percent internally displaced girls to ensure equitable access to entrepreneurial learning opportunities.

    According to him, empowering teachers is at the heart of the initiative. “Teachers are the catalysts for entrepreneurship education. We want to equip them with the right mindset and tools to inspire creativity, innovation, and leadership in the next generation,” he added.

    Akogun stressed the need for government and institutional support to sustain the impact of the program.

    “For anything to thrive, it needs the right environment. We need the support of the government and other development partners,” he said.

    The upcoming convening will assemble educators, school leaders, government representatives, NGOs, and private sector partners to explore actionable ways to make entrepreneurship education more practical and inclusive in Nigerian schools.

    It will also serve as a platform for sharing success stories, identifying gaps, and building collaborations that will enable teachers to become effective enablers of innovation and self-reliance among young Nigerians.

    Interested participants and stakeholders can register through JAN’s website at www.janigeria.org or follow its social media platforms @janigeria for updates.

  • Junior Achievement Nigeria to hold national forum on teaching entrepreneurship

    Junior Achievement Nigeria to hold national forum on teaching entrepreneurship

    Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) is set to convene a national forum aimed at transforming how entrepreneurship is taught in schools, placing teachers at the forefront of the conversation.

    The event, tagged SET4LYF: National Convening on Teaching Entrepreneurship with a Focus on Teachers, will hold on Thursday, November 6, 2025, and will gather educators, policymakers, and private sector partners to explore practical strategies for strengthening entrepreneurship education in classrooms across the country.

    Ahead of the convening, JAN on Tuesday held a virtual media briefing to unveil the vision and objectives of the initiative.

    Speaking during the session, Mr. Olaolu Akogun, Country Director of SET4LYF, explained that the School-to-Work Educational Transitions for Long-Term Youth Fulfilment (SET4LYF) programme is tailored to prepare Nigerian secondary school girls, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and persons with disabilities (PWDs) for future opportunities in entrepreneurship, higher education, and the workforce.

    “We want to be inclusive, bridging the gap with this programme. Inclusion is very important to us,” Akogun said.

    He noted that the initiative targets beneficiaries in 31 states with a deliberate inclusion quota — 5 percent girls with disabilities and 10 percent internally displaced girls to ensure equitable access to entrepreneurial learning.

    According to him, empowering teachers remains central to the project. 

    “Teachers are the catalysts for entrepreneurship education. We want to equip them with the right mindset and tools to inspire creativity, innovation, and leadership in the next generation,” he said.

    Akogun also called for strong government and institutional support to sustain the programme’s long-term impact.

    “For anything to thrive, it needs the right environment. We need the support of the government and other development partners,” he said.

    The upcoming convening will assemble educators, school leaders, government representatives, NGOs, and private sector partners to explore actionable ways to make entrepreneurship education more practical and inclusive in Nigerian schools.

    It will also serve as a platform for sharing success stories, identifying gaps, and building collaborations that will enable teachers to become effective enablers of innovation and self-reliance among young Nigerians.

    Interested participants and stakeholders can register through JAN’s website at www.janigeria.org or follow its social media platforms @janigeria for updates.

  • Ngover urges fintechs, financial institutions to partner with Junior Achievement Nigeria to empower youth, drive financial inclusion

    Ngover urges fintechs, financial institutions to partner with Junior Achievement Nigeria to empower youth, drive financial inclusion

    At the 25th anniversary celebration of Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), Ngover Ihyembe Nwankwo, Executive Director, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement Systems PLC and a proud alumna of the Venture in Management Programme (ViMP), one of the flagship programs offered by JAN, urged fintechs and financial institutions to partner with JAN in a shared mission to empower Nigeria’s youth and advance financial inclusion nationwide.

    Reflecting on the evolution of fintech, Ngover highlighted how the sector has transformed the financial landscape in just a few years, revolutionising access to capital, payment systems, and digital services.

    “From dial-up internet to blockchain and mobile wallets, Nigeria’s fintech industry has opened unprecedented opportunities for young entrepreneurs,” she said, adding, “It’s no longer just about providing financial tools. It’s about giving our youth the education, mentorship, and opportunities to leverage these tools to innovate and lead.”

    Ngover’s remarks came at a time when Nigeria’s demographic landscape has positioned it as one of the youngest countries in the world, with over 60% of its population under 25. “This youth bulge is not a challenge; it’s an opportunity,” she emphasised. “Nigeria’s young population is bursting with creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit — qualities that will fuel the country’s economic growth for decades to come.”

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    However, Ngover pointed out that despite the rapid growth of Nigeria’s fintech sector, young Nigerians still face significant barriers to entrepreneurship, particularly around access to financial tools and education. This is where the partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria becomes pivotal.

    By working together, fintechs, financial institutions, and JAN can break these barriers, allowing young entrepreneurs to focus on what truly matters: innovation.

    “Fintech has made significant strides in breaking down barriers to accessing capital and financial services,” she noted. “However, without financial literacy, these tools can’t reach their full potential. This is where JAN plays a crucial role — by equipping young Nigerians with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate these tools effectively, empowering them to confidently transform their ideas into thriving businesses.”

    Ngover highlighted the transformative potential of fintech in advancing gender inclusion, particularly for women in underserved communities.

    She noted that women in Nigeria continue to face higher levels of financial exclusion than men, and fintechs provide an opportunity to bridge that gap. By offering easier access to capital, digital marketplaces, and payment systems, fintechs can empower women to build businesses, contribute to household incomes, and uplift an entire community.

    In her concluding remarks, Ngover emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors to create a nurturing environment for young Nigerians.

    While recognizing ongoing infrastructure hurdles, she shared a hopeful vision—highlighting that with the right mentorship, access to digital tools, and meaningful partnerships, Nigerian youth have the potential to drive a fintech-powered wave of entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusive economic progress.

    She left the audience with a compelling call to action: “What part will we play in funding the future? How can we leverage fintech to build businesses, solve real problems, and uplift our communities?”

    About Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN)

    Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young people with skills and resources that will help them succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy. Through its dynamic programmes in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, work readiness, and digital literacy, JAN has impacted over 1 million students across Nigeria. By fostering creativity, innovation, and financial literacy, JAN is preparing the next generation of Nigerian leaders to drive economic change.

    For more information on how to get involved or support JAN’s mission, contact info@ja.nigeria.org

    Media Contact: Tobiloba Olaosun – tobiloba.olaosun@ja-nigeria.org, +2348068110942

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janigeria?igsh=c2IyOWh0OXlzeDF6&utm_source=qr

    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/share/1WkJGEJW4u/?mibextid=wwXIfr

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/janigeria/

    Email: info@ja-nigeria.org

  • TotalEnergies LEAD Career Project: Inspiring the Next Generation of Eco-Leaders in Partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria

    TotalEnergies LEAD Career Project: Inspiring the Next Generation of Eco-Leaders in Partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria

    Junior Achievement Nigeria collaborated with TotalEnergies to implement the L.E.A.D Career Project making it the fourth edition, focusing on empowering young Nigerians to seize opportunities in the green economy. L.E.A.D which stands for Learn, Experience, Articulate, and Decide was facilitated by David Adefunmilayo and centered around a discussion on “Eco-Innovation and Green Economy: Opportunities for Young People.”

    With over 1,000 participants in attendance, Adefunmilayo provided valuable insights on how sustainability and innovation can create new career pathways, and position youth for success in industries prioritizing environmental solutions. He emphasized key areas where eco-innovation can drive growth, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management amongst others.

    The students engaged in intensive leadership training and participated in hands-on job shadowing at TotalEnergies in Port Harcourt.

    During this experience, they observed employees carrying out their daily duties and gained insight into their roles. Additionally, some employees shared their career journeys, offering valuable advice to assist the participants in making informed career choices and visualizing a future rich with potential opportunities.

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    Adesua Adewole, General Manager, Country Services TotalEnergies Marketing, speaking about the program, emphasized the importance of reinforcing sustainability in every edition of the L.E.A.D Career Project, noting how it continues to instill critical values in the participants.

    During her session, she taught the students about leadership and encouraged them to believe in their abilities, reminding them that they are being prepared to become future leaders who will drive sustainable progress. She expressed pride in TotalEnergies’ role in shaping these future leaders, emphasizing the significance of the project in helping students build a sustainable future.

    Olaolu Akogun, the Programs Manager of Junior Achievement Nigeria, remarked on the impact of the program: “The Total L.E.A.D Career Project is a shining example of JAN’s dedication to empowering young people for success in the global economy.

    Our partnership with TotalEnergies has been instrumental in enhancing work readiness programs, one of our core pillars at Junior Achievement Nigeria. Through this initiative, students gained valuable exposure to sustainable career opportunities, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future. We are grateful to TotalEnergies for their collaboration and look forward to future partnerships that will continue to inspire and prepare Nigeria’s youth for a brighter future”.

    By the end of the session, participants gained valuable insights on how exploring opportunities for eco-innovation and embracing the Green Economy can shape the future of business and sustainability. This partnership highlights TotalEnergies’ commitment to empowering young leaders to innovate in industries that balance profit with sustainable practices, ensuring a brighter future for Nigerians.

  • Darun Noor Intercontinental School shines at National and Africa Company of the Year

    Darun Noor Intercontinental School shines at National and Africa Company of the Year

    The 2024 National Company of the Year (NCOY) Competition, hosted by Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) in Lagos, brought together 12 exceptional student-led companies from across Nigeria. Under the theme “Greenovation,” these young innovators presented sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.

    Following a competitive showcase, Smart Sprout from Darun Noor Intercontinental School in Kano claimed the top spot with its innovative smart sprinkler system, which improves irrigation efficiency and supports sustainable farming. Their win earned them a spot at the renowned Africa Company of the Year (ACOY) Competition in Mauritius, where they proudly represented Nigeria on an international platform.

    Other outstanding teams are, De Amazons from Innovative Heritage School, Nasarawa, for second place with their organic marker ink, while Greencycle from Ibesikpo Secondary Commercial School, Akwa Ibom, secured third place with their eco-friendly bags made from recycled plantain stems. Special awards included the PMIEF Best CSR Award (Innovative Heritage School, Nasarawa), the Female Leadership Award (Hauwa Abdullahi Sulaimon), and the CEO of the Year (Gideon Tambari George, Government Senior Secondary School, Rivers State). The Trailblazers from Enugu State also won the Public Choice Award, sponsored by Boeing, for their remarkable project engagement, while Delta Air Lines recognized 15 female participants for their exceptional performances, sponsoring their trip to attend the 2025 LEAD Camp in Ghana.

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    At the Africa Company of the Year (ACOY 2024) in Mauritius, Smart Sprout showcased their innovation alongside student companies from across Africa. Their commitment to sustainability, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship stood out, earning them the MIPS Excellence in Technology and Innovation Award. Additionally, their facilitator, Hajia Hadiza Yusuf Baba, was honored with the Best Facilitator Award, recognizing her dedication to mentorship and youth empowerment.

    Reflecting on these remarkable achievements, Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, remarked: “The ingenuity and leadership demonstrated by these students are truly inspiring. Their ability to address real-world challenges through sustainable innovation proves that Nigeria’s future is in capable hands. We deeply appreciate our sponsors – First Bank, PMIEF, and Boeing for their commitment to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers”.

    Through the Company Program, Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) continues to empower young entrepreneurs, helping them turn ideas into impact and equipping them to lead the way in building a more sustainable and innovative future”.

  • Junior Achievement Nigeria, BASF empower youths on building sustainable future

    Junior Achievement Nigeria, BASF empower youths on building sustainable future

    Junior Achievement Nigeria in partnership with BASF have organised the third edition of the Young Voices for Sustainable Future Program, a transformative initiative empowering Nigerian youth to tackle real-world environmental challenges.

    The program engaged 720 students aged 15 to 20 across Akwa Ibom, Enugu, FCT Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Oyo, Plateau, and Rivers States equipping them with practical tools and knowledge to address climate change and sustainable development challenges.

    The program was implemented using school-based mentoring sessions, workshops, and structured activities, all aimed at encouraging youth-led contributions to environmental sustainability.

    Culminating in a National Innovation Competition in Lagos, students showcased innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues.

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    The highlight of the program was the groundbreaking innovation from the winning team, PJ Ventures, a student company from Government Science Secondary School, Maitama, Pyakasa, FCT Abuja. Led by Abu-Francis Ebo Helen, the team developed K-Bloom, a sustainable fertilizer made from wood ash and sawdust, which impressed the judges with its creativity, practicality, and potential for significant environmental impact. They will benefit from mentorship by BASF experts, furthering their growth as leaders in sustainability.

    The competition was judged by a distinguished panel, including Boluwatito Aiyeola, Seunfunmi Ogungbure, Adewole Taiwo, and the Chief Judge; James Joseph, who assessed the projects on innovation, feasibility, and alignment with sustainability goals.

    Speaking at the program, Babatunde Aribiduro, Head of Corporate Communications and Advocacy for BASF West Africa, stated: “At BASF, we believe in the power of young minds to drive sustainable change. Watching these students develop and present innovative solutions has been truly inspiring. We are proud to partner with Junior Achievement Nigeria to nurture a new generation of changemakers who are ready to make a positive impact on the environment and their communities.”

    Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, commended the students’ dedication and innovation, “This program highlights the incredible potential of young people to lead impactful change. K-Bloom and the other innovative projects we have seen demonstrate that, with the right tools and opportunities, our youth can solve real-world issues and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We are proud to partner with BASF to build a sustainable future.”

  • ViMP 2024: Junior Achievement Nigeria empowers graduates on entrepreneurial skills 

    ViMP 2024: Junior Achievement Nigeria empowers graduates on entrepreneurial skills 

    Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) has organised the 2024 edition of Venture in Management Program (ViMP).

    This is an initiative designed to prepare young graduates for leadership roles in the business world in collaboration with Lagos Business School. 

    Sponsored by GB Foods this year’s program focused on: “Utilizing Innovative Methods and Sustainable Approaches to Entrepreneurship”

    The program brought together 100 exceptional graduates, 50 onsite and the other 50 virtual; engaging in workshops and case studies with real-world business scenarios. 

    The participants benefited from career development sessions, and mentorship from seasoned industry professionals, who are also Venture in Management Program (ViMP) alumni, including Olusegun Anthony Osoneye, Senior Recruiter at McKinsey & Company, Olufisayo Abiodun, Creative Entrepreneur, and Tomilola Mustapha, Academy Manager at Africa Retail Academy, Lagos Business School. 

    Additionally, participants also received invaluable lessons from experts such as Prof. Tayo Otubanjo, who guided them through Marketing Essentials, Branding, and Digital Marketing in the Social Media Age, Dr. Henrietta Onwuegbuzie, who provided insights on Entrepreneurship Essentials, Business Model, and Business Plan, Dr. Okechukwu Amah, who took them through Preparing for Leadership, and Margaret Isebor, who facilitated a session on Ethics, Values, Leadership, and Society. 

    The Alumni Mixer allowed participants to connect with past Venture in Management Program (ViMP) participants and experts like Eyitayo Ogunmola, CEO of Utiva, who shared valuable experiences on embedding sustainability in their business models. 

    In addition, participants took part in community service projects, reflecting Venture in Management Program’s commitment to fostering responsible leadership through innovation and social responsibility.

    Imoh Essien, one of the participants, said: “Venture in Management Program (ViMP) has been a game-changer for me. The focus on sustainability and innovation has broadened my understanding of entrepreneurship. I now feel more equipped to create solutions that are not only profitable but also impactful in a broader social context.”

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    Ugonna Achebe, the Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria and a Venture in Management Program (ViMP) alumna, expressed his satisfaction with the success of this year’s program. 

    He noted: “Venture in Management Program (ViMP) 2024 edition truly embodied the forward-thinking leadership we aim to instill in our participants. As we focus on innovation and sustainability, we are preparing young leaders not only to excel in business but to do so in a way that creates lasting value for society. At Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), we are proud to see how the program continues to evolve and impact lives positively.”

    In his remark, Mr. Vincent Egbe, the Managing Director of GB Foods Nigeria said, “We are thrilled to be partners in supporting the Venture in Management Program (VIMP). 

    “At GB Foods, investing in local communities is a critical lever of our sustainability commitment. By empowering future business leaders through VIMP, we are fostering entrepreneurship and driving sustainable development. This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing talent and building a resilient community. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all.”

  • Junior Achievement Nigeria champions digital safety for over 11,000 students

    Junior Achievement Nigeria champions digital safety for over 11,000 students

    The Meta SafeOnline Project implemented by Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) has made a significant impact through its first phase. 

    The program reached a total of 11,226 secondary school students across 151 schools in 14 states, equipping them with essential skills in digital safety and cybersecurity. 

    States that benefited from the initiative include Akwa-Ibom, Enugu, Oyo, Plateau, Kaduna, Ogun, Ondo, Kano, Rivers, Osun, Gombe, Lagos, Abuja, and Nasarawa.

    The Meta SafeOnline Project aligns with Junior Achievement Nigeria’s mission to foster digitally savvy and responsible citizens and provide students with vital knowledge about the risks and responsibilities of navigating the digital space. 

    The initiative focused on critical areas such as online privacy, misinformation, cyberbullying, and secure online habits. Through engaging sessions, students learned practical tips like creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing scams, and being cautious about oversharing personal information on social media platforms.

    Speaking on the program’s success, the Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, Ugonna Achebe, remarked, “The Meta SafeOnline Project is a powerful tool in addressing the challenges of our digital world. As young people increasingly engage with online platforms, it is our responsibility to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to do so safely. 

    This program has touched the lives of over 11,000 students, and we are proud to be part of their journey toward becoming responsible digital citizens.”

    The hands-on approach of the program also ensured that students were not only taught but were able to actively apply the lessons to their daily internet usage.

  • Junior Achievement Nigeria marks 25 years of impact

    Junior Achievement Nigeria marks 25 years of impact

    Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) has celebrated its 25th anniversary dinner in Lagos. 

    The event gathered the organisation’s board members, corporate partners, government officials, educational stakeholders, alumni, volunteers, staff, and supporters.

    The dinner was a celebration of Junior Achievement Nigeria’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youth through its core pillars of entrepreneurship, financial literacy, digital literacy, and work readiness.

    Since its inception in 1999, JAN has evolved into a leading non-profit focused on equipping youth with the skills they need to succeed in a global economy across all 36 states and the FCT, through various impactful programs.

    A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Ngover Ihyembe-Nwankwo, Executive Director, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement Systems PLC (NIBSS) and one of the pioneer participants of Junior Achievement Nigeria’s Venture in Management Program (ViMP) in 2000.

    Her keynote, titled “Financing the Future: How FinTech Can Drive Innovation in Entrepreneurship Education and Empower Nigeria’s Youth”, explored the transformative role that financial technology can play in advancing entrepreneurship education.

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    She emphasized how FinTech not only opens up new pathways for innovation but could also serve as a medium to equip young people with the tools to become more financially literate.

    Ngover went on to acknowledge JAN’s role in her professional journey, describing the organization as a vital force for positive change that has shaped the entrepreneurial futures of countless Nigerians over the past two decades.

    The Executive Director JAN, Ugonna Achebe expressed pride in the organization’s journey and the impact it has had on youths nationwide.

    He remarked, “Celebrating 25 years is a significant milestone, not just for Junior Achievement Nigeria but for every young person whose life has been touched by our programs. As we look forward, we are committed to continuing our mission of empowering the next generation with the skills, values, and mindsets needed to thrive in today’s ever-evolving world.”

    As part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations, Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) recognized the outstanding contributions of some of its alumni, staff, and key stakeholders through a special awards segment. Simi Nwogugu, CEO of JA Africa, was honored with the JAN Accelerator Award for her visionary leadership and significant impact in driving the organization forward, Michael Ijiko was recognized with the Long-Standing Employee Award. These awards, amongst others, highlighted the dedication, innovation, and excellence that continue to shape JAN’s legacy of empowering young Nigerians.

    Mr Niyi Yusuf, the Chairman, Board of Directors, expressed deep appreciation for the staff’s dedication and tireless efforts. He highlighted that Junior Achievement Nigeria’s success is deeply rooted in the commitment of its workforce, noting, “Our staff have been instrumental in driving the impact of our programs. Their work ensures that each young person who passes through Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) receives the tools necessary to lead and innovate responsibly.”

    Looking ahead in the next 25 years, Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director, unveiled a new digital platform, the JAN App, highlighting its potential to transform young Nigerians’ engagement with entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and digital education.

    According to him, the innovative tool aims to impact by enhancing resource accessibility, promoting inclusivity, and providing opportunities for youths from all backgrounds and revolutionizing program access.

    “JAN’s success today, have been made possible through the unwavering support of its corporate partners, who play a pivotal role in scaling social impact. Companies like Google, Meta, Citi Bank, ExxonMobil, Union Bank, Verraki Africa, TotalEnergies, Boeing, PMIEF, GB Foods, First Bank, Delta Air Lines, and many others have aligned their CSR goals with Junior Achievement Nigeria’s mission, enabling the organization to reach more youth across Nigeria.”