By Angela Atabo
The newly appointed co-chairs of Africa Advisory Board of King’s Trust International (KTI) Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede and wife Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, have pledged to unlock the potentials of African youths.
A statement signed by Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig Imoukhuede, revealed that the duo, recently appointed as the co-chairs of Africa Advisory Board, had contributed to the humanitarian and civil service sectors among others.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that King’s Trust International was founded in 2015 by His Majesty King Charles III, to tackle the urgent crisis in youth unemployment building among others.
The statement, therefore, said that under the leadership of Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, the board would intensify its focus on scaling innovative, high-impact programmes.
This is to support young people to gain relevant skills, secure meaningful work or launch their own enterprises.
The statement said the co-chairs, known for their extensive experience in financial services, governance and philanthropy, are strong advocates of public–private–philanthropic collaboration.
They equally drive systemic change that unlocks sustainable opportunities for young Africans.
“We are honoured to take on this role at a pivotal time for Africa’s future. Our mission is to unlock the potentials and creativity of Africa’s youth, nurturing a generation that will lead sustainable development across the continent.
“We look forward to collaborating with partners who share our commitment to transforming lives through education, opportunity and innovation,” the statement quoted the duo as saying.
The statement said, the pair succeeded Bernard and Genevieve Mensah, who served as the board’s founding co-chairs for six years and would continue to contribute as members.
The leadership transition marked a new phase in KTI’s Africa strategy, strengthening its mission to expand partnerships and deliver high-impact programmes to equip young people with education, employability and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“Since its launch in Africa in 2016, KTI has supported more than 30,000 young people across nine countries, achieving an 83 per cent success rate in helping participants secure employment or return to education within three months of completing its programmes.
“Established to harness African expertise, the Africa Advisory Board guides KTI’s programmatic growth across the continent, builds networks, mobilises resources and helps shape initiatives tailored to the challenges facing Africa’s youth.
“With more than 60 per cent of the population under the age of 25, Africa holds immense potential; yet youth unemployment and underemployment remain pressing concerns, particularly in underserved communities.”
Paying tribute to the outgoing co-chairs, Will Straw, CEO of King’s Trust International, said:
“Bernard and Genevieve have provided exceptional and visionary leadership that has been instrumental in establishing and growing KTI’s presence and impact across Africa.
“Their dedication over the past six years has laid a strong and lasting foundation for our work on the continent.
“We are delighted that they will both continue to contribute their valuable expertise as members of the Africa Advisory Board.
“As we look to the future, we are excited to take our impact to the next level with Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede.”
Straw said their extensive experience, deep commitment and visionary approach would be vital in scaling programmes and achieving even greater impact for young people across Africa.
“Together, we will drive forward innovative solutions that empower the next generation to learn, earn, and thrive throughout the continent.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Francis Onyeukwu
