Airtel Nigeria welcomed the 2024 Generation Unlimited (GenU) Steering Committee to its Banana Island headquarters in Lagos, where leaders from government, business, and civil society gathered to discuss strategies for empowering Nigerian youth through digital education and job-readiness. This collaboration, in partnership with UNICEF, reflects GenU 9JA’s mission to provide young Nigerians with critical digital skills and accessible career pathways.
In his opening remarks, Carl Cruz, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, underscored the company’s dedication to this mission.
“It’s an honor for Airtel to host this pivotal meeting, reaffirming our commitment to a cause that can positively impact the lives of millions of young Nigerians,” Cruz said. “By equipping youth with the skills they need, we’re not only fostering their individual growth but also supporting Nigeria’s social and economic progress.”
Cruz highlighted Airtel’s role in providing digital connectivity for education across Nigeria. Through its UNICEF partnership, Airtel has connected 1,260 schools, enabling over 600 children to access platforms like the Nigeria Learning Passport and Yoma Africa. “This is about more than connectivity; it’s about leveling the playing field so every young Nigerian has a chance at quality education,” he added.
Other GenU 9JA partners in attendance included IHS Towers, ATC, Unilever, Jobberman, Microsoft, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Nigeria’s Ministries of Education and Youth & Sports Development, GIZ, World Bank, ILO, UNDP, UNFPA, the EU Delegation, and the Government of the Netherlands.
During the event, Femi Adeniran, Airtel Nigeria’s Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, presented a report on the progress of GenU 9JA’s digital learning initiatives, reiterating Airtel’s commitment to advancing digital inclusion. “Connecting schools and expanding digital learning opportunities for young Nigerians is a top priority for Airtel,” said Adeniran. “Since our partnership with UNICEF began in 2023, we’ve exceeded our connectivity goals, revealing critical gaps in Nigeria’s educational landscape. This year, we’ve taken even greater strides to bridge those gaps and build essential skills among youth.”
Adeniran also shared how Airtel’s recent campaign, ‘Live Limitless,’ aligns closely with GenU 9JA’s motto, ‘We No Get Limit,’ emphasizing Airtel’s goal of empowering young Nigerians to realize their full potential.
The 2024 GenU Steering Committee meeting underscored Airtel’s commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development. By collaborating with partners and investing in the next generation, Airtel is actively working to uplift Nigerian youth and support the nation’s future.
