To accelerate Nigeria’s clean energy transition and address youth unemployment, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has graduated its first cohort of 200 youths trained in Renewable Solar Energy Systems. The group, which includes 62 females and 138 males, features participants from diverse backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities. Each graduate now possesses practical skills in designing, installing, operating, and maintaining solar photovoltaic (PV) systems—critical expertise for Nigeria’s rapidly growing energy market. 

The six-month specialized training, delivered in partnership with AFS Vocational Hub, provided entrepreneurship lessons and equipped participants with toolboxes to jump-start their solar energy careers. In addition, all graduates registered business names and received access to market support, ensuring they are well-positioned to establish sustainable ventures. 

This initiative is part of UNDP’s commitment in addressing youth unemployment and supporting Nigeria’s Vision 30:30:30 strategy, which aims to generate 30 Gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy and ensure 30% of electricity comes from renewables by 2030. With energy demand expected to double by 2040 and the country’s youth unemployment rate at 8.6% (NBS, 2023), initiatives like this are pivotal for empowering youth and fostering economic growth. 

“Through this program, we are not just training young Nigerians but laying the foundation for sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector,” said Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria. “These graduates are now equipped to drive Nigeria’s energy transition, contribute to climate resilience, and create green jobs that will power communities and industries across the nation.” 

The introduction of the Electricity Act 2023, which deregulates the energy sector and empowers state governments to manage electricity generation and distribution, underscores the urgent need for skilled manpower in clean energy technologies. The solar industry, in particular, plays a critical role in bridging Nigeria’s energy gap, especially in underserved rural areas. 

UNDP’s Integrated Clean Energy Offer provides a holistic framework for addressing the nation’s energy challenges through four pillars: 

In addition to technical expertise, the program emphasizes entrepreneurship, enabling participants to establish small businesses in solar energy services. The provision of registered business names, access to markets, and start-up toolboxes ensures that the graduates are equipped to become job creators in their communities. 

With global demand for renewable energy rising and Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s energy transition, this program is an important milestone in UNDP’s broader efforts to create 1 million green jobs by 2030. As the world prioritizes climate action and sustainable development, initiatives like this position Nigeria as a leader in addressing both environmental and economic challenges. 

The graduating cohort’s story demonstrates how targeted interventions in skills development and market access can transform lives and drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP remains committed to partnering with the Nigerian government, private sector, and civil society to build a sustainable and inclusive future. 

About UNDP  

UNDP is the leading United Nations international development organisation working in 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and to build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is concentrated in three focus areas: sustainable development, democratic governance and peace building, and climate and disaster resilience.