The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has announced plans to host its workforce job and employability fair 2026, aimed at equipping job seekers with relevant skills and boosting inclusive growth.
The event is scheduled for May 13–14, 2026, at NECA House in Ikeja, Lagos, with the first day to be held virtually.
Themed “Empowering talents, building skills and driving inclusive growth,” the fair is designed to prepare participants for meaningful engagement with employers while providing a platform for stakeholders to discuss digital trends, skills development and career opportunities in Nigeria’s labour market.
Speaking from Geneva, Adewale Oyerinde, NECA director-general, said the initiative is a response to the changing nature of work driven by digitalisation and emerging technologies.
“The world of work is changing rapidly due to digitalisation and emerging technologies. Our youth need future-ready skills, yet unemployment and skills mismatch remain major challenges,” he said.
He added that participants will undergo a mandatory AI fluency course to equip them with essential digital skills for the modern workplace.
According to him, the training will culminate in a joint certification from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), and Microsoft.
The virtual session on May 13 will focus on interview readiness, including resume development, professional presentation and workplace expectations.
The physical session on May 14 will feature face-to-face interactions between job seekers and employers, including on-the-spot interviews, networking opportunities and career counselling.
He said the event will also host panel discussions with industry leaders and human resource professionals, offering insights into career development and the future of work in Nigeria.
Employers across sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are expected to participate through recruitment activities, talent scouting and assessments.
Oyerinde said inclusivity remains a priority, noting that the fair will ensure participation of persons with special needs.
He described the initiative as part of NECA’s commitment to bridging the gap between talent supply and industry demand, while reducing unemployment and promoting a more skilled workforce.
