Cisco and UNDP Launch $50M Nigeria Skills Program

Cisco and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have announced a landmark $50 million digital skills and workforce development initiative aimed at empowering Nigerian youths. 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and global technology leader Cisco have formed a major partnership to deliver over $50 million in digital skills training and career opportunities for young Nigerians.

Running over a three-year period, the initiative aims to reach approximately 150,000 learners targeting 50,000 unique students annually. The program is integrated into the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) with support from the federal government and international partners designed to bridge the gap between traditional academic education and the technical skills required by modern employers.

Through the Cisco Networking Academy, participants gain access to specialized, industry-recognized training in critical technology fields including cybersecurity, networking, data science, artificial intelligence, software programming, IT support, and digital entrepreneurship.

By combining structured online learning with practical workplace experience, the initiative helps graduates transition from education to meaningful employment. The acquired skills apply across essential sectors driving the country’s economy such as financial services, telecommunications, agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare and public administration.

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Government and international representatives emphasized that preparing young citizens with practical digital competencies is essential for driving long-term economic growth and expanding technological capabilities.

By uniting public policy, international development financing and private-sector learning infrastructure, the collaboration aims to build a sustainable talent pipeline. Program leaders noted that empowering local youth with world-class digital tools ensures that Nigeria’s emerging workforce is fully equipped to participate in and shape the future of the global digital economy.