By Chidi Ugwu
In a remarkable stride toward youth empowerment and digital skills advancement, the Chiggy Nsofor Foundation (CNF) has equipped 21 young Nigerians with expertise in web development and digital marketing, photography and videography, hairdressing, make-up artistry, and catering. This was achieved through the free, hands-on “Skill Scale Up Cohort 1” program.
During a brief graduation ceremony on Friday, July 11, 2025, CNF Founder Chiggy Nsofor described the event as more than just a graduation—it was a vibrant celebration of vision, dedication, and transformative growth.
Nsofor set an inspiring tone, emphasizing the journey and the promising future ahead for the graduates. She noted that participants underwent an intensive 3-4 month program designed to enhance their abilities across various fields.
Beyond technical training, participants completed compulsory courses in:
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Personal Development (TMC): Reinforcing CNF’s core values.
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Entrepreneurship: Providing essential business knowledge and practical money-making strategies.
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Content Creation: Preparing students to excel in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The CNF leader expressed heartfelt appreciation for the CNF Team, fondly referred to as the “CNF Army,” recognizing their excellence, dedication, and positive culture. She gave special shout-outs to team members E-Brains, Big Pam, Jim Jim, and Victor for their outstanding efforts.
Eight facilitators were commended for their patience and commitment, especially in mentoring students with little or no prior experience. Pastor Tunde Adeyemo was also acknowledged for his steadfast support throughout the program.
Nsofor further praised the graduates for their determination, teamwork, and impressive transformation.
A highlight of the event was the story of a student who, despite having no prior computer experience, successfully built a fully functional website within just one month—underscoring the program’s tangible impact.
Delivering the keynote address titled “The Journey Begins With You,” Helen Omuh, Director of the Prevention Care and Treatment Department at the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, emphasized that skill acquisition is about more than learning tasks—it’s about building resilience, self-belief, and the capacity to create positive change. She encouraged graduates to keep growing, innovate, support others, and always seek God’s guidance.
Omuh also recognized the essential support of parents, guardians, and instructors, reminding graduates that this achievement marks the beginning of their journey to shape their own destinies.
Earlier, CNF Project Officer Esohe Okuomose, in her welcome address, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to empowering vulnerable Nigerians through humanitarian aid, healthcare, education, and skill acquisition. She celebrated the graduation of the first Skill Scale Up cohort and warmly thanked all guests for their presence at this milestone event.
“We envision a world where vulnerable Nigerians are given meaningful opportunities to improve their quality of life. Our mission is to provide essential support and empower individuals and communities through capacity building. Guided by our values—impact, capacity building, integrity, excellence, selflessness, teamwork, and a possibility mindset—we are committed to transformative initiatives and collaborations that make lasting change possible,” Okuomose stated.
Parents in attendance expressed deep gratitude, describing the program as life-changing for the youths.
Mrs. Uchenna Azuh shared that her child, despite achieving high scores in the last JAMB but unable to secure university admission, found the program invaluable in filling what could have been a void and a long wait for another admission cycle.
Pastor Nwani Peter remarked, “Before this program, my child was uncertain about the future and lacked the practical skills and confidence needed to navigate the challenges ahead. But today, I see a transformed young person—equipped not only with valuable skills but also with renewed hope, determination, and a clear vision for the future.”
Launched on April 7, 2025, the Skill Scale Up project was created to empower young Nigerians with practical skills and broadened perspectives.
