Continental Hotels, UNICEF partner to train Nigeria’s future hospitality leaders
Continental Hotels Group has partnered with UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) to equip young Nigerians, especially women, with industry-relevant skills for careers in hospitality, tourism, and the service sector.
The partnership combines Continental Hotels’ expertise in luxury hospitality with GenU 9JA’s experience in youth empowerment and livelihood development. Through the initiative, participants will receive hands-on training, mentorship, and professional certification aligned with global hospitality standards.
The programme will be delivered through the Continental Hotels Hospitality Academy at Lagos Continental Hotel and Abuja Continental Hotel. Participants will gain practical experience in customer service, hotel operations, and sustainable hospitality practices, while accessing clear career pathways from entry-level positions to leadership roles.
Speaking on the partnership, Karl Hala, Group General Manager of Continental Hotels, said the initiative reflects the group’s commitment to developing talent and positioning Nigeria as a leading hospitality destination in Africa.
“We are committed to positioning Nigeria as a leading hospitality hub in Africa. Empowering the next generation, especially young women, is central to our vision. Partnering with UNICEF GenU 9JA enables us to create lasting impact through structured training and real-world experience at our iconic properties in Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry continues to expand, driven by increasing domestic and international demand. However, skills shortages and the underrepresentation of women remain significant challenges. The partnership seeks to address these gaps by creating inclusive opportunities that promote gender equality and economic participation.
Generation Unlimited Nigeria, launched by UNICEF in 2021, is a public-private-youth platform that helps young Nigerians transition from learning to earning. Institutionalised under the Office of the Vice President, GenU 9JA has impacted more than 11 million young people through programmes focused on employability, digital access, and youth engagement.
Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Office and Lead, Generation Unlimited Nigeria, described the collaboration as a practical response to youth unemployment and skills development.
“The most remarkable aspect of this partnership is that it creates real opportunities for real young people. When employers like Continental Hotels open their doors with genuine commitment, young Nigerians rise beyond expectations. Young women who might otherwise be excluded from the industry will gain the skills, mentorship, and confidence needed to build successful careers,” she said.
The first batch of trainees will begin their programmes at the Lagos and Abuja properties, with plans to expand the initiative across Nigeria.
By investing in young people today, Continental Hotels Group and GenU 9JA are helping to build the skilled workforce needed to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a premier hospitality destination in Africa.
