By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Abuja with the Association of Skilled and Vocational Artisans of Nigeria (ASVAN) to launch the “One Nigerian, One Skill” initiative, a nationwide empowerment programme designed to equip youths with practical, income-generating skills and tackle unemployment across Nigeria.
ADC, ASVAN Sign MoU to Boost Youth Empowerment
The agreement marks a strategic move to promote vocational training and entrepreneurship. ADC leaders said the partnership will drive grassroots development and reduce poverty.
Speaking at the event, ADC National Welfare Secretary, Nkem Ukandu, stressed the urgency of skill-based empowerment.
“Our nation faces unemployment and under-employment, especially among youths,” Ukandu said.
He noted that thousands of graduates leave school yearly without market-ready skills. According to him, this gap affects families and weakens the economy.
Therefore, he said the One Nigerian, One Skill programme will equip young Nigerians with practical knowledge that creates jobs and sustainable livelihoods.
Tackling Youth Unemployment Through Skills Development
Ukandu explained that the initiative promotes entrepreneurship and self-reliance. He added that the programme aligns policy with practical implementation.
“Together, we are aligning policy with delivery and ambition with real implementation,” he stated.
He maintained that vocational training remains the most effective solution to youth unemployment and poverty.
Furthermore, he urged the Federal Government to prioritise skill-based empowerment across the country.
ASVAN Pledges Grassroots Support
ASVAN National President, Comrade Everest Obijuru, said the association has operated for 12 years. He noted that ASVAN members work in welding, electrical installation, mechanics and vulcanising.
“We are the grassroots,” Obijuru said. “We engage in various skill-based trades that sustain communities.”
He added that ASVAN has partnered with government agencies and private firms on several empowerment projects. As a result, the group has built strong technical capacity nationwide.
Obijuru also revealed that ASVAN collaborates with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Through this partnership, artisans receive management and business training.
He explained that this support strengthens artisans and improves service delivery.
Why ASVAN Is Key to One Nigerian, One Skill
Ukandu described ASVAN as the ideal technical partner for the programme. He said the association’s mandate includes equipping, certifying and positioning artisans as contributors to national development.
Consequently, the partnership aims to create structured pathways for skill acquisition and certification.
ADC leaders believe the initiative will stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty and empower millions of youths.
