Diageo Nigeria has launched its Learning for Life Programme and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Lagos State Government to train 500 youths in skills acquisition.
The event, held at Diageo Nigeria’s office on Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos, was well attended by key partners and members of the media.
The MoU was signed by Bayo Ali, Managing Director of Diageo Nigeria, on behalf of the company, and Oyindamola Egbeyemi, Director of Programmes at the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), on behalf of the Lagos State Government.
Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation, who represented the Governor, commended Diageo Nigeria for the laudable initiative to empower Lagos youths with free training. He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the programme and working closely with Diageo to achieve its goals.
While delivering the Governor’s speech, the Commissioner disclosed that there will be an increase in the number of participants from the initially slated 250 to 500 participants.
Learning for Life is a free training programme by Diageo to equip young Nigerians, especially those who are unemployed or disadvantaged, with practical skills needed to work in the hospitality industry.It covers classroom training, internship, and job placement support.
Diageo Nigeria introduced Learning for Life in Nigeria as a response to the pressing challenge of youth unemployment. By leveraging the fast-growing hospitality sector, to create inclusive opportunities that will equip young people with skills for sustainable employment and long-term economic empowerment.
Participants will be trained in a wide range of competencies, including hospitality business operations, communication and teamwork, bar and service skill, budgeting, CV writing, and job readiness. The programme also covers critical topics such as gender and disability inclusion, positive drinking practices, and how to address workplace harassment.
The programme is a comprehensi, blended learning experience. It begins with one-week in-person training, followed by an 11-week internship at top hospitality businesses in Lagos. During the training, participants also engage in ongoing online learning through the Diageo Bar Academy.