By Mary Onyia
The Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited has vowed to support youth empowerment through skill acquisition programmes designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, mentorship, and confidence to thrive.
The company’s Youth Empowerment initiative, launched in 2017, has become one of the most impactful youth development programmes in Nigeria and across 28 countries where Coca-Cola HBC operates.
The programme has already surpassed its target of reaching one million young people globally by 2025, expanding its impact as a platform for nation- building and career readiness.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Youth Empowered Tour in Kaduna, NBC’s Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director, Soromidayo George, said the initiative reflects the company’s consistent investment in Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.
“By empowering youths with skills, mentorship, and opportunities, we are not only shaping their futures but also contributing to the nation’s growth,” she said.
To deepen its impact, NBC has strengthened the YE programme with more experiential learning. Earlier this year, select beneficiaries participated in an intensive culinary masterclass, with three winners rewarded with N1 million each to support sustainable ventures in the food and hospitality sector.
In addition, ten participants secured placements within NBC for practical workplace exposure, gaining hands-on experience to better prepare them for professional careers.
The 2025 edition will feature interactive workshops and capacity-building sessions, providing insights on building sustainable businesses, advancing careers, and leveraging digital tools for growth.
After Kaduna, the tour will move to Ondo, Port Harcourt, Edo, Benue, Niger, Jos, and Delta, building on the 2024 edition, which reached youths across Abuja, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Enugu, Lagos, Kano, Anambra, and Maiduguri.