To close the skill gap in Nigeria’s fast-growing tech industry, Women in Product has announced a new partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, Youth Africa Foundation, Elevate Technologies and top Fintech companies. The collaboration aims to equip 2500 youth with in-demand tech skills through comprehensive training and mentorship over the next five years starting from Nigeria and expanding to 10 other African countries
This multi-stakeholder program is strategically designed to address two critical national challenges: the growing tech talent shortage and the gender disparity in the industry. As companies across Africa undergo digital transformation, the continent faces an estimated annual loss of over $50 billion due to a lack of skilled tech professionals. Meanwhile, youth are significantly underrepresented and more severely impacted by unemployment, with the female unemployment rate soaring as high as 65%.
“This is not just about numbers. It’s about building a future where youth are fully represented in the innovation economy,” said Etorobon Obot, Founder of Women In Product “Through this initiative, we’re creating access to world-class training for youth who have the passion but not the means. We’re giving them the tools and the confidence to lead in tech.”
The initiative will run as a 6-month cohort-based program, delivered both virtually and in person, with two cohorts each year. In addition to intensive training, the program offers structured mentorship and internship placements, ensuring participants gain real-world experience. Candidates will be selected through a multi-stage process, prioritizing youth with limited financial access but a strong desire to grow in tech.
WIP brings to this initiative a solid track record in technical education and youths’ empowerment. Since its inception, the organisation has trained and mentored over 600 youth, many of whom have gone on to secure roles at companies like Flutterwave, Interswitch, and PiggyVest, or have launched successful ventures of their own. “Our previous cohorts have proven that when you invest in youth, the returns are exponential,” noted Program Lead, Ikuopenikan. “The impact extends beyond the individual—it uplifts families, communities, and ultimately the economy. This new scale allows us to replicate that success thousands of times over.”
Ogechi Ahmad, a partner at the Youth Africa Foundation, shared her excitement: “Partnering with WIP on this mission is deeply aligned with our values. Empowering youth through tech is one of the most impactful ways to drive inclusive development. We’re calling on more industry players to invest in the future of youth in technology.”
With this initiative, WIP is not only building skills—it’s laying the foundation for a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient tech ecosystem in Africa.
