A Telecommunications infrastructure company, IHS Nigeria Limited, has intensified efforts to tackle youth unemployment in Cross River State by expanding its flagship Project Empower initiative, graduating 100 young beneficiaries with vocational skills and business starter packs to support self-employment.

The company said the programme, implemented in partnership with Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) and the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA), is designed to create sustainable livelihoods rather than provide short-term interventions.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Calabar, Associate Director, Government Relations and External Affairs, IHS Nigeria, Gbolahan Thomas, said the company’s commitment extends beyond building telecommunications infrastructure to investing in people and communities.

Thomas said sustainability remains central to IHS Nigeria’s operations, noting that stronger connectivity should translate into stronger communities through improved access to education, healthcare, employment and economic opportunities.

According to him, Project Empower aligns with the company’s sustainability strategy, particularly its focus on education, economic growth and community development by equipping young Nigerians with practical skills that can generate lasting income.

He disclosed that since the initiative began in 2010, IHS Nigeria has partnered with organisations across several states to provide vocational training and entrepreneurial support to thousands of youths.

Thomas explained that the latest beneficiaries received training in solar installation, electrical installation, makeup and beauty, as well as toiletries and soap production, describing the skills as pathways to financial independence and innovation.

“We believe empowering people is one of the most effective ways to drive sustainable development. Today’s graduates have acquired skills that can help them build businesses, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” he said.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Field of Skills and Dreams, Omowale Ogunrinde, revealed that the programme attracted 399 applications, from which 100 unemployed youths aged 35 years to 18 years were selected after a screening process.

She said participants underwent three weeks of intensive practical and entrepreneurship training between June 8 and June 26, receiving transport support, feeding and starter kits to enable them to commence businesses immediately after graduation.

Beyond the graduation, Ogunrinde disclosed that beneficiaries would receive a second phase of business support within three months, while those who remain active in their chosen trades would qualify for additional equipment, cash grants and free business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission after six months.

She added that participants would also be monitored through digital platforms, including dedicated WhatsApp groups, business surveys and mentorship sessions to ensure the sustainability of their enterprises.

Representing the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Patrick Egbede, commended the partnership, saying it complements Governor Bassey Otu’s people-centred development agenda by equipping young people with employable skills capable of reducing unemployment.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Esther Etem, a graduate, described the programme as life-changing, saying she enrolled after seeing an online application link and now possesses practical skills in producing liquid soap, bleach, disinfectants, air fresheners, insecticides and hand sanitisers.

She pledged that the investment made in the beneficiaries would not be wasted, promising to use the skills to build sustainable livelihoods and empower others.