JMG seeks stronger government-industry collaboration on youth....

JMG Limited, an integrated electro-mechanical solutions company, has called for stronger collaboration between government, industry and educational institutions to equip young Nigerians with future-ready skills needed to drive innovation, boost employability and support sustainable economic growth.

The company made the call ahead of the 2026 World Youth Skills Day, marked annually on July 15. This year’s theme, “Skills for a Shared Future,” underscores the need to prepare young people with technical, digital, artificial intelligence, green and soft skills required in an increasingly technology-driven labour market.

JMG said bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry practice remains critical to developing a workforce capable of meeting the demands of Nigeria’s evolving economy.

As part of its efforts to support skills development, the company highlighted several initiatives aimed at exposing students to practical industrial experience.

In March 2026, JMG hosted engineering students from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) at its Gbagada facility to commemorate World Engineering Day. During the visit, the students toured the company’s production facility and received practical demonstrations from its engineering team on production processes and engineering applications in industrial development.

The company also welcomed science students from Wellspring College to the same facility during its Children’s Day activities, where they were introduced to assembly operations, manufacturing processes and engineering systems through guided sessions conducted by its production team.

According to JMG, the initiatives are designed to complement classroom education with practical exposure, helping to prepare the next generation of engineers and technology professionals.

Speaking on the importance of investing in youth skills, the company’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Gloria Ibeziako, said the future competitiveness of any economy depends largely on the quality of its human capital.

She stressed the need for sustained investment in technical and digital skills alongside problem-solving and collaboration to enable young Nigerians to compete effectively in a rapidly changing global economy.

According to her, while technological advancement continues to transform workplaces, it also presents significant opportunities for young people who embrace continuous learning and innovation.

Ibeziako urged businesses to play a more active role in workforce development by complementing job creation with mentorship programmes, technical training and workplace exposure that strengthen the link between education and industry.

She noted that equipping young people with relevant skills would not only improve employment prospects but also enhance Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness and long-term economic growth.

“Skills development is not just an investment in individuals; it is an investment in national progress. By nurturing a workforce that is innovative, adaptable and future-focused, we are laying the foundation for stronger industries, more resilient businesses and shared prosperity,” she said.

JMG reaffirmed its commitment to engineering excellence and innovation, stating that sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors remains essential to preparing young Nigerians for emerging opportunities in the global economy.

The company added that it would continue to support initiatives that promote technical education, innovation and workforce development as part of its contribution to Nigeria’s industrial transformation.