A skill development initiative by the Yomi Denzel Foundation (YDF) has trained over 40 young Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) and programming, a move aimed at improving youth employability and promoting financial independence through digital skills.

The programme, which was held in Lagos and Ibadan, provided training in Python, data science and AI, with participants also receiving industry-recognised certifications and, in some cases, laptops to support further learning.

The intervention comes amid growing demand for digital skills and new pathways to employment and financial independence in Nigeria’s evolving economy.

Speaking at the foundation’s fourth graduation ceremony, the founder of the foundation, Yomi Denzel, said the initiative was designed to equip young people with practical skills relevant to the modern job market.

He noted that participants were selected based on willingness to learn rather than academic background, adding that the goal was to support “motivated young people” with the tools needed to build careers in technology.

According to him, more than 40 participants were trained in the current cohort, with about 25 receiving both Python and DataCamp certifications, alongside computers to aid their work.

“We want to give them the skills that are important now, like programming and AI, and provide the tools so they can build a better future for themselves,” he said.

Denzel added that the programme continues to evolve in response to technological changes, with increasing emphasis on AI due to its growing relevance across industries.

Participants said the training had improved their analytical skills and employability, and opened up opportunities in the tech ecosystem.
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The Lagos graduates’ representative, Wonderment Adedayo, described the programme as a turning point, noting that many participants moved from having little or no coding knowledge to becoming capable of building tech solutions.

Similarly, the Ibadan graduates’ representative, Joshua Oduola, said the programme helped transition students from dependence to being “career-ready,” with multiple certifications achieved within nine months.

Testimonies from past beneficiaries also highlighted career progression after completing the programme, including internships in major organisations and participation in global hackathons.

One alumnus said the training enabled him to secure roles in technology firms and build an AI-driven startup with over 2,000 users.

The foundation also showcased projects developed by participants, including AI-powered health assistants, financial market prediction tools, and school management platforms designed to digitise administrative processes in Nigerian schools.