In an era where securing a job is more competitive than ever, the First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young Nigerians to thrive in the workforce.
The FCMB Flexxtern Programme is designed to equip fresh graduates with the essential skills and hands-on experience needed to succeed in today’s tech-driven economy.
As graduates enter a challenging job market, where having a degree alone is no longer sufficient, the demand for well-rounded candidates proficient in technical skills, communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and digital literacy has surged.
Addressing this need head-on, the Flexxtern Programme offers invaluable internships that serve as a critical stepping stone for young professionals.
Internships, especially in the financial sector, have long been recognized as vital for career development. According to the Harvard Business Review, these opportunities provide a mutually beneficial arrangement, enabling companies to gain fresh perspectives while young talent acquires essential experience.
The Flexxtern Programme is a perfect embodiment of this principle, focusing on preparing Nigerian youth for the workforce through exposure to real-world corporate environments.
Recently, FCMB celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of interns, a testament to the programme’s success in bridging the gap between academic learning and professional experience. The initiative has garnered support from various partners, including Insight Publicists, Digiengage Nigeria, TISV Digital, Nairametrics, Olaniwun Ajayi Law Partners, Activedge Technologies, and Signal Alliance Technology Holding.
Yomi Adebanjo, Group Head of Human Resources at Signal Alliance Technology Holding, emphasized the programme’s impact: “The Flexxtern programme is a platform for self-discovery and career progression. We’ve been part of this since 2021, and our experience has been remarkable. Our first Flexxtern has been employed full-time with us, and the second performed equally well. This initiative is truly an opportunity to celebrate young graduates and set them on the path to achieving their dreams.”
Since its inception in 2016, the Flexxtern Programme has provided over 200 young Nigerians with the opportunity to gain invaluable work experience through internships with reputable organizations. Tailored for individuals aged 18 to 30, this initiative has become a key gateway for launching diverse career paths. The programme continues to grow, with more companies joining the mission to empower the next generation of professionals.
“The Flexxterns deployed to us have significantly impacted our organisation,” stated Olawale Ayuba, Vice President of GRC and Enterprise Fraud at ActiveEdge Technologies.
“Their contributions have been key to our success, and we are eager to continue this partnership to create more life-changing opportunities for youth.”
The role of financial institutions in youth empowerment cannot be overstated. The Financial Times highlights that “Banks and financial institutions have a unique position in driving youth empowerment through internships, particularly by exposing interns to diverse roles that help build well-rounded professionals.” The Flexxtern Programme capitalizes on this opportunity, placing interns in various departments across partner organizations to provide a comprehensive understanding of different sectors.
Ifeoluwa Adeyemo from Insight Publicis shared her enthusiasm: “The partnership has been a wonderful and impactful experience. The Flexxterns that have come to us are nothing short of great. We have some of them still working with us. We are committed to ensuring this partnership grows and achieves the desired results.”
During the graduation ceremony, Diran Olojo, Group Head of Corporate Affairs at FCMB, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to preparing young Nigerians for future challenges. “At FCMB, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for young people to gain the skills necessary for success. The Flexxtern programme reflects our commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders by offering them mentorship, real-world training, and hands-on experience.”
The programme success is evident in the graduates’ achievements, with many securing full-time roles and others launching entrepreneurial ventures powered by the skills they acquired. Initiatives like Flexxtern play a crucial role in addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria, contributing to the broader goal of economic growth.
Moreover, the importance of such initiatives aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8, which promotes “decent work and economic growth.” By providing real-world experience and skill-building opportunities, the FCMB Flexxtern initiative supports this global goal, paving the way for youth to secure meaningful employment.
As Nigeria continues to evolve within a complex job market, the collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions is paramount. By partnering with industry leaders, initiatives like Flexxtern ensure that young Nigerians are equipped with the skills and experiences necessary to compete in both local and global arenas.
In a world where opportunities can feel scarce, the Flexxtern initiative exemplifies how, with the right support, mentorship, and real-world experience, the youth of Nigeria can rise to any challenge. As more organizations align with educational initiatives, there is hope for a future where Nigeria’s youth are prepared and empowered to lead in their chosen careers.
