Godswill Michael
Bldr. Samson Opaluwah, President of the Sector Skills Council for Building in Nigeria (SSCBiN), has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to industry-driven skills development during his participation at the Global Skills Forum 2025. The high-level event, hosted by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) under Malaysia’s chairmanship, convened over 500 delegates from around the world to discuss “The Role of Private Sector in Skills Development: Driving Innovation and Impact.”
The Forum was officially opened by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dato Seri Dr. Zahid Bin Hammidi, and featured leading international organizations and development partners.
As a speaker and panelist, Bldr. Opaluwah shared insights on the pivotal role of Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) in preparing for future workforce needs. He highlighted the importance of promoting quality apprenticeships, establishing industry-led centers of excellence, and implementing sustainable financing models. Drawing from global best practices in Ghana, Australia, Germany, and Kenya, he stressed the significance of private sector involvement in driving innovation and creating sustainable employment opportunities worldwide.
He said, “Innovation and investment in skills development are essential to unlocking economic growth and empowering Nigerian youth for global competitiveness.”
The panel discussion brought together government representatives, leading employers, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and other development partners to explore strategies for strengthening public-private partnerships, aligning workforce training with industry demands, and leveraging digital technologies for upskilling and reskilling.
Speaking further at the Forum, Bldr. Opaluwah reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a strong skills ecosystem, noting, “Nigeria is building a robust skills ecosystem through active collaboration with industry stakeholders.”
The Global Skills Forum 2025 provided a platform for knowledge exchange among policymakers, business leaders, and development organizations focused on advancing 21st-century skills. Bldr. Opaluwah’s participation underscores Nigeria’s leadership and dedication to inclusive, industry-led skills development both nationally and internationally.
