Start Innovation invests N40m in tech skills development

 

Start Innovation Hub has announced a fresh investment of N40 million to support the training of young Nigerians in vital technology skills, marking another step towards closing the country’s digital skills gap and empowering its youth for jobs in the global tech economy. The Uyo-based hub, which has steadily built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading private sector drivers of digital talent development, said the fund would cover scholarships and significant discounts for at least 200 beneficiaries in its next training cycle.

The Chief Executive Officer of Start Innovation, Hanson Johnson, made the announcement during a briefing with stakeholders and prospective trainees. According to him, the new investment is a direct response to the overwhelming demand from young Nigerians seeking quality digital training but unable to afford the full cost. He explained that the hub has consistently received applications from smart, motivated young people who are eager to build tech careers but are limited by financial barriers.

“The N40 million we are committing is our contribution to ensuring that money does not stand in the way of young Nigerians who are ready to learn and transform their lives,” Johnson said. “Our goal is to train, mentor and equip them with practical, industry-ready skills that will make them employable anywhere in the world.”

The training programmes will cover areas such as software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, product design, and digital marketing — skills that are in high demand both locally and globally. Johnson noted that the hub’s curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest industry trends and employer requirements. This way, graduates do not just acquire certificates, but leave with real-world project experience and portfolios that showcase their abilities to potential employers.

Start Innovation Hub has a track record of delivering hands-on, project-based training that goes beyond theory. Trainees work on actual projects, guided by seasoned professionals who serve as instructors and mentors. This approach, Johnson said, has helped many alumni secure good jobs in tech firms across Nigeria and abroad, while others have gone on to start their own businesses.

This new investment builds on earlier efforts by the hub to make digital skills training accessible to more Nigerians. In 2024, Start Innovation partnered with the Federal Ministry of Education and the World Bank under the IDEAS Project to train 700 young people in digital skills. That programme also made deliberate efforts to include persons with disabilities, demonstrating the hub’s commitment to inclusion.

In June 2025, Start Innovation also earned recognition from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), which approved the hub as a certified Skill Training Centre. This approval means that the hub’s programmes now meet national standards, and graduates receive certificates endorsed by the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) and the Computer Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN). The added credibility helps trainees present qualifications that are recognised by employers and other institutions across the country.

The need for more structured investment in tech skills has never been greater. Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest technology markets but continues to struggle with a shortage of skilled talent. Recent reports suggest that employers in the tech sector often struggle to fill roles locally, even as thousands of young Nigerians remain unemployed or underemployed. Many industry leaders say that bridging this gap through practical training is key to unlocking the full potential of the country’s digital economy.

Johnson emphasised that Start Innovation’s latest investment aligns with broader national efforts to build a vibrant tech workforce. He referenced the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, which aims to train three million Nigerians in tech skills over the next few years. The 3MTT initiative has already reached thousands of young people through partnerships with training hubs and private sector players like Start Innovation.

He noted that while government efforts are welcome, private sector support remains critical for reaching more people, especially in areas outside Lagos and Abuja, which traditionally dominate Nigeria’s tech landscape. “We are proud to be playing our part from Akwa Ibom,” he said. “We believe talent exists everywhere. All people need is opportunity, and that is what this investment is about.”

Industry analysts say that for initiatives like this to make a real impact, there must also be a focus on ensuring that graduates find meaningful employment or are supported to start businesses. This means building stronger linkages with employers, encouraging start-up incubation and addressing structural issues such as access to funding and reliable power.

As part of its strategy, Start Innovation plans to expand its internship placements and partner with more tech companies to absorb its graduates. It also hopes to attract more private and public sector sponsors to support future training cycles, ensuring that scholarships and discounts can continue to reach those who need them most.

Young people who wish to benefit from the new round of funding have been encouraged to apply through the hub’s website. Johnson said selection will prioritise applicants who demonstrate passion, basic digital literacy and the determination to commit fully to the training.

For many young Nigerians hoping to break into the tech industry, the N40 million commitment represents more than just funding — it is a chance to learn relevant skills, gain confidence and secure a better future in a world that increasingly runs on technology. As Nigeria works to position itself as a hub for digital talent and innovation, efforts like this show that while the challenges remain large, there is also a growing determination to build solutions from the ground up.