A coalition of local and international organizations in collaboration with Lagos State Employment Trust Fund has launched a paid internship programme aimed at boosting employment prospects for holders of Ordinary National Diploma in Lagos State.

The Chief Executive Officer of Obsidian Advisory Africa, Damilola Ademilokun, stated in a statement on Monday that Lagosians interested in applying for the second cohort, scheduled to commence in October 2025, are encouraged to do so.

“Applicants must be aged 18 to 35, reside in Lagos State, hold a minimum of a National Diploma, and possess a valid LASRRA ID,” he stated.

It was stated that Obsidian Advisory Africa, a workforce development and recruitment organization focused on Nigeria’s fashion and creative industries, partnered with the LSETF and GIZ to implement the Bridge 2 Work Programme under the LSETF-GIZ Employability Support Project.

The CEO said the initiative “is funded by the German and Swiss Governments” through the Skills Development for Youth Employment – SKYE II programme in partnership with LSETF.

The first cohort, launched on July 1, 2025, trained 100 young Lagosians in high-demand fields such as Customer Service Management, Sales Support, and Administrative Support.

Participants completed a four-week intensive training programme at Bridge by Obsidian, Obsidian Advisory Africa’s job centre and co-working space located in Yaba, Lagos.

The training combined technical and soft skill modules, covering professional communication, telemarketing, inventory management, CRM tools, digital sales, and workplace readiness.

Ademilokun said, “Following the training, participants are now being placed into three-month paid internship positions with top businesses across Lagos.

“The internship phase provides practical industry exposure and a pathway to long-term employment.

“This programme is about bridging talents to opportunities. We’re proud to see our first cohort complete their training journey and begin their internships.

“The growth we’ve witnessed in just a few weeks is proof of what’s possible when young people are supported with the right tools and environment.”

Ademilokun urged businesses interested in hiring interns in customer service, sales, or administrative support roles to contact Obsidian for collaboration opportunities.

He concluded, “The Bridge 2 Work Programme is part of a broader effort to reduce youth unemployment by equipping Nigerian youth with skills, confidence, and access to real work experiences.” (The PUNCH)