UNGA: Vivacity Development Emphasises Nigeria’s Role in Future of Work

At the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the United States, global leaders and stakeholders engage in high-level discussions on policies and ideas that could impact the economic trajectories of their respective countries.

Among the many international actors poised to contribute to these discussions is Vivacity Development, led by Oluwakemi Areola.

Vivacity Development will be organizing a significant side event at UNGA, focused on Nigeria’s critical role in the evolving future of work, as well as issues related to climate change, technology, youth empowerment, and agriculture.

Speaking ahead of the event, Areola highlighted the unique opportunity the UNGA provides for tackling global challenges, emphasising that Nigeria could not afford to lag in conversations shaping the future of work.

“UNGA is a global platform where critical discussions about the world’s most pressing issues take place, making it the perfect setting for a conversation about the future of work.

“We were inspired to host this event because the evolving nature of work is central to sustainable development and improving lives globally, particularly in regions like Nigeria.”

With technology, she continued, youth engagement, and meaningful employment at the forefront, it’s crucial to address these topics during such an influential gathering.

Vivacity Development’s initiative comes at a time when the global economy is undergoing profound changes.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated trends in remote work, automation, and digitalisation, reshaping labor markets worldwide.

In Nigeria, however, Areola insisted that the transition has been more challenging due to infrastructure gaps, technology barriers, and limited education on data protection and digital skills.

Areola stressed that addressing these issues head-on is vital for Nigeria’s future, not just in terms of catching up with global trends, but also in harnessing its enormous potential, particularly through its youthful population.

She noted that the upcoming side event will bring together global thought leaders who have successfully implemented future-of-work strategies in various countries.

These experts will provide insights that can help tailor solutions to Nigeria’s unique economic and societal landscape.

“By leveraging these experiences, we aim to develop a tailored plan for Nigeria that takes its unique challenges and opportunities into account,” she said.

“Through this, we can ensure that Nigeria’s workforce is empowered to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.”

The event is phase 1 of a larger programme that is designed to deliver long-term, sustainable outcomes for Nigeria’s workforce.

It will centre on sensitisation and open dialogues to explore the challenges and opportunities surrounding the future of work, while the second phase will focus on upskilling individuals to better prepare them for the evolving workforce.

And finally, it will culminate in tangible job creation efforts, ensuring that the discussions and training from earlier phases lead to real employment opportunities and sustainable economic growth.

However, Areola seeks more collaboration with key Nigerian stakeholders, including government bodies and private sector leaders.

She believes that Nigeria’s involvement in shaping the future of work is not just an option but a necessity. “This is an event where both government and private individuals play an integral role.

Vivacity Development is not working in isolation, she said, highlighting the organisation’s collaborations with a diverse range of partners, including government agencies, NGOs, private enterprises, and international organisations.

She further reiterated the need for collective action to address Nigeria’s workforce challenges. “We are at a pivotal moment where the decisions we make today about the future of work will determine our nation’s prosperity for decades to come,” she said.

“Nigeria has the talent, the youth, and the drive, but we need to build the systems and strategies to support them in this new world of work. This is why our event at UNGA is so important.”

As the UNGA approaches, Vivacity Development’s side event promises to be a critical moment for Nigeria, offering a platform for the country to redefine its role in the global workforce and ensure its participation in the future of work.