Holds on the 6th – 11th of November, 2026 and This Is What You Need to Know About It
The Ugwumba SkillUp Program is the latest initiative of the Ugwumba Centre for Leadership Development in Africa (UCLDA), specially designed to equip Nigerian youths with practical, income-generating skills and leadership capacity for self-reliance. This flagship program reflects UCLDA’s long-term vision to reduce unemployment by empowering young people through hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure.
The SkillUp Program will not be a one-off event. It is set to become a regular developmental platform held in various states across Nigeria, with each edition tailored to the needs and interests of its host community.
In this maiden edition holding from November 6th – 11th, 2026, participants will be trained in areas such as:
- Paint making
- Makeup and gele tying
- Catering and pastries
- Food processing and packaging
Alongside practical training, there will be engaging sessions led by seasoned speakers and facilitators professionals who are not only skilled in their fields but passionate about youth empowerment. These facilitators will share both technical skills and real-life strategies for growth, resilience, and business success.
At the end of the program, participants will receive certificates of participation, along with opportunities for small-scale empowerment, to help kickstart their journey toward financial independence.
In all, Ugwumba SkillUp is more than a training — it’s a platform for learning, connection, and transformation, targeting the vibrant energy of Nigerian youths and redirecting it toward meaningful impact.
The strength of the Ugwumba SkillUp Program lies not only in its vision but in the quality of minds and hands leading its sessions. For this maiden edition, the program brings together a team of skilled professionals who are passionate about equipping young Nigerians with practical knowledge and tools for self-reliance.
Each facilitator is experienced in their field and understands the importance of breaking down complex techniques into simple, teachable steps, especially for beginners. More than just instructors, they serve as mentors and guides, committed to seeing participants not just learn, but grow in confidence and capacity.
The facilitators for this edition include:
- His Excellency, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu – The President, UCLDA
- Mr. Linus Okorie MFR– Founder, GOTNI
- Ebi Alaibe Elieanya – Founder, I- Tech Africa Initiative
- Rajan Nazran – Chairman International Advisory Board, UCLDA
- H.E Prof. Dr. Alisa Whyte – Chairman, International Advisory Board, UCLDA
- Marie C. Zoutomou-Quintanilla – CEO, Seek Coaching LLC.
Each of them brings a unique approach to training, combining technical skill, industry experience, and a heart for youth development. Their sessions are expected to be interactive, hands-on, and packed with useful tips, business advice, and real-life applications.
Selected participants can expect to walk away not only with certificates of participation, but with valuable insights, marketable skills, and the motivation to pursue entrepreneurship or self-employment, all thanks to the time, effort, and dedication of these facilitators.