By Chinedu Echianu
The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the European Union and other development agencies, has certified a new cohort of social protection specialists in Nigeria, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s social welfare framework.
The certification ceremony, held at the United Nations Building in Abuja, was conducted under the EU-funded SUSI project—Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria—and forms part of the broader “Transform” initiative, a capacity-building programme launched in 2016 at the request of the African Union.
Speaking at the event, ILO Country Director for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Vanessa Phala, described the milestone as a critical investment in Nigeria’s future. She emphasised that social protection goes beyond welfare support, serving as a key macroeconomic tool to tackle poverty, inequality, and vulnerability.
Phala noted that over 5,000 specialists across nearly 30 African countries have been trained through the Transform programme, in collaboration with agencies such as the World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization, and United Nations Development Programme.
Out of 25 initial participants in Nigeria, 21 successfully completed the intensive training and were inducted into a growing network of certified “Transformers.” According to SUSI Project Manager Emmanuel Danjuma, the programme is designed not only to build individual capacity but also to create a multiplier effect, with graduates expected to train others within their institutions and communities.
“This is not just a certificate of participation,” Phala stressed. “It represents a professional qualification earned through a rigorous process and reflects the competence needed to drive impactful social protection interventions.”
The newly certified trainers will also gain access to the Transform Hub—a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuous professional development—further strengthening their ability to implement inclusive policies.
Stakeholders at the event underscored the importance of social protection as a strategic tool for poverty reduction and social inclusion, aligning with broader continental efforts to build resilient and equitable societies.
One of the participants, Yimave Gyanggyang, highlighted the programme’s transformative impact, noting that Nigeria is entering a new phase where skilled manpower can effectively drive social protection initiatives.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates as certified trainers and advocates working to advance Nigeria’s social protection agenda.
