The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has successfully graduated 75 participants from its ICT Academy, equipping them with advanced digital skills to thrive in today’s fast-evolving technology landscape.

The graduation ceremony, held at NECA House in Ikeja, Lagos, saw the participants receive certificates after completing four months of intensive training in high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, Python programming, cyber security, and 3D animation.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, represented by the Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, commended NECA for its sustained commitment to human capital development. He described the academy as a model for effective collaboration between government, industry, and the private sector.

“Digital skills are the currency that drives innovation and productivity. The NECA ICT Academy demonstrates how partnerships can unlock opportunities for young Nigerians. What you have gained is more than technical knowledge; it is the confidence to innovate, solve problems, and create value. Never stop learning, because skills attract value globally, and excellence will always open doors,” Hamzat said.

Also speaking, Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Dauda, praised NECA and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for empowering youths with relevant technical skills. He encouraged the graduands to apply their knowledge with diligence, integrity, and creativity to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Dr. Afiz Ogun, Director-General of ITF, represented by Ojo Akindele, emphasized the importance of continuous self-development in an era dominated by artificial intelligence, noting that “the shelf life of every CEO and professional is becoming shorter due to rapid technological advancement.” He encouraged the graduates to continue building on their skills to seize future digital opportunities.

Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, Director-General of NECA, highlighted that the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to national development through employability enhancement. He revealed that 95% of previous academy graduates have either secured meaningful employment or launched their own businesses, boosting productivity and sustainable enterprise growth.

“ICT competence is no longer optional in today’s workplace; it is essential. The NECA ICT Academy addresses this reality by providing free, certified training along with logistics and stipends to ensure inclusivity. These graduates have shown excellence, discipline, and innovation throughout their journey, and we are extremely proud of their achievements,” Smatt-Oyerinde said.

One of the graduands, Jubril Azeez Oladipupo, described the programme as a life-changing experience that has set the cohort on a clear career path and provided a strong foundation for future success in the technology sector.

The NECA ICT Academy continues to be a critical platform for bridging Nigeria’s digital skills gap, fostering innovation, and preparing young Nigerians to compete effectively in the global digital economy.