By Warefa Pereke.
Delta State, Nigeria – The Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) officially began its landmark 10th Anniversary and National Unemployed Youths Day celebrations today at the De Ellis Event Centre. The opening day was marked by a series of powerful, high-energy speeches from guest speakers who urged Nigerian youths to look beyond traditional job seeking and embrace the digital and entrepreneurial future.
The atmosphere was electric as hundreds of young people from across the country gathered to mark a decade of SWUYN’s impact on youth development and advocacy.
The event opened with a keynote address that focused on the theme : “The Power of the Youth Voice in Policy and Progress.” Speakers emphasized that the “youth bulge” in Nigeria is not a burden, but the nation’s greatest untapped asset.
Key takeaways from the morning sessions included:
- The Digital Advantage: Experts in media and technology spoke on how social platforms are no longer just for entertainment but are essential tools for digital advocacy. They encouraged attendees to use their online presence to influence public policy and demand structured support for young entrepreneurs.
- Self-Reliance and Innovation: Guest speakers highlighted the shift from “searching for jobs” to “creating value.” One speaker noted, “The certificate gets you in the door, but your skills and your ability to solve a problem keep you in the room.”
- Economic Inclusion: Advocates called on the government to create more accessible loan schemes and favorable policies for small-scale businesses owned by young Nigerians.
Join the MovementFor those unable to attend in person, SWUYN is encouraging youths to follow the conversation online using the hashtag #SWUYNat10.
Event Details Recap:
- Event: SWUYN 10th Anniversary & National Unemployed Youths Day.
- Venue: De Ellis Event Centre, DSC Expressway, Delta State.
- Dates: March 10th – 12th, 2026.
As SWUYN marks its first decade, the organization took a moment to reflect on its journey. From its humble beginnings to becoming a national voice for the unemployed, the group has successfully bridged the gap between job seekers and industry leaders.
“Today is about more than just a celebration,” said a representative from the planning committee. “It is about the thousands of lives changed and the thousands more we intend to reach. Seeing the excitement in this hall today proves that our youth are ready for more.”
The excitement of Day 1 sets the stage for a practical and hands-on Day 2. Tomorrow, the focus shifts to Technical and Vocational Training, where participants will move from the lecture hall to the workshop.
The sessions will cover high-demand areas including:
* Renewable Energy Systems (Solar installation and maintenance)
* Information Technology (Digital marketing and content creation)
* Vocational Arts (Fashion design, catering, and cosmetics)
The celebration continues through March 12th, concluding with an awards ceremony to recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to youth welfare in Nigeria.
