Food insecurity, youth unemployment, and uncontrolled migration remain major challenges in West Africa. To address these issues, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched the Youth Employability Project (ECOWAS-YEP) in Nigeria. The programme is implemented by the Association of Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria (NOAN) and focuses on training young Nigerians in the Agro-Sylvo-Pastoral Heuristics (ASPH) sector. If you are a Nigerian youth passionate about agriculture, agribusiness, or sustainable development, this programme offers you the chance to gain practical skills, enhance employability, and contribute to food security.
What Is the ECOWAS-YEP Programme?
The ECOWAS-YEP is a regional youth employability initiative focused on transforming Nigeria’s agri-food value chains. By developing practical, market-ready skills in agriculture, forestry, and livestock systems (ASPH), the programme aims to:
• Reduce youth unemployment.
• Minimize irregular migration.
• Strengthen food security.
• Promote shared economic growth across Nigeria.
Programme Objectives
- Promote youth employability in the ASPH and agri-food value chains.Create decent jobs and income opportunities for willing young men and women in Nigeria.
- Create decent jobs and sustainable income opportunities.
- Provide practical skills training in modern climate-smart agricultural practices and agribusiness.
- Support entrepreneurship and innovation in sustainable agriculture across the value chain.
Training Modules
The ECOWAS-YEP programme offers specialised modules, including:
Delivery: Blended learning — online classes plus onsite practicals at select centres (Ibadan, Umudike among others), depending on the module.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
Benefits
- Hands-on technical training and practical exposure.
- Certificate of participation/completion (module-dependent).
- Mentorship and access to professional networks.
- Improved employability and entrepreneurship pathways.
- Opportunity to contribute directly to food security.
How to Apply (Direct Link)
- Open the official application form: ECOWAS-YEP Nigeria Application Form.
- Confirm eligibility and choose your preferred module.
- Complete the online form with accurate personal and background details.
- Upload supporting documents if requested.
- Submit and monitor your email for next steps from the implementers.
Tip: Apply early; some modules have limited slots and module-specific timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ECOWAS-YEP?
A youth employability programme targeting agriculture and ASPH value chains, designed to equip Nigerian youths with job-ready skills.
Who can apply?
Nigerian youths aged 18–35 with an interest in agriculture or agribusiness. Women and marginalised groups are encouraged.
Where is the training held?
Blended: online plus onsite sessions at selected institutions such as centres in Ibadan and Umudike (module-dependent).
Is there a certificate?
Yes. A certificate may be issued upon successful participation or completion, depending on the module.
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