Lagos, Nigeria — Caladium Consulting, a prominent strategy and financial advisory firm, has announced the launch of the Caladium Strategy Skills Academy, a specialized training program designed to equip aspiring professionals with essential business strategy skills.
The academy aims to train 1,000 fresh graduates and early-career professionals to bridge the growing knowledge gap in strategy consulting. According to Ayo Bankole Akintujoye, Lead Strategist and CEO of Caladium Consulting, the initiative is designed to empower young Nigerians with practical skills that will enhance their employability in a competitive job market.
“Our goal is simple: to build a strong pipeline of young professionals and career-switchers who can analyze business problems, develop strategic solutions, and confidently compete globally,” Akintujoye stated. “Nigeria has the talent; what’s missing is structured, hands-on learning. That’s exactly what we are providing with this Academy — and we are doing it for free.”
Hands-on Learning and Practical Skills
The two-week intensive training program will feature expert-led sessions by Caladium Consulting facilitators, case studies, and interactive projects. Participants will gain real-world experience in key areas such as:
- Research and Data Analysis
- Business Planning and Market Studies
- Strategy Frameworks and Execution
- PowerPoint and Business Presentations
- Process Documentation and Mapping
Akintujoye emphasized that while the program is free, entry requirements will be rigorous to ensure participants are committed and meet high standards.
“We want to build a pipeline of our Academy graduates that brands can trust,” he said.
Program Eligibility and Future Expansion
The first phase of the Academy will focus on 1,000 fresh graduates, NYSC members, and early-career professionals seeking to develop business analysis and critical thinking skills. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including being a 300-level student, recent graduate, or NYSC corps member with at least a 2:1 or upper credit in any discipline, alongside demonstrated leadership experience and access to a functional laptop.
Akintujoye further disclosed that a second track tailored for experienced professionals seeking to transition into strategy consulting will be introduced in the coming months. This track will provide advanced frameworks and guidance to help professionals secure leadership roles in the industry.
Addressing Nigeria’s Talent Gap
Akintujoye highlighted Nigeria’s growing talent gap as a significant concern. He noted that while the country boasts a large youth population, issues such as emigration and a weak curriculum that fails to teach practical business skills have left many graduates ill-prepared for corporate careers, particularly in strategy and consulting.
“This Academy is our way of addressing that gap and ensuring Nigerian talent remains competitive in the global market,” he said.
How to Apply
Interested participants can register for the program on the company’s official website: www.caladiumconsulting.com.
About Caladium Consulting
Founded in 2010, Caladium Consulting is a leading strategy and financial advisory firm dedicated to empowering professionals and businesses across Africa. Through initiatives like the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp and the Caladium Strategy Skills Academy, the company continues to close skill gaps, build talent pipelines, and create career-changing opportunities for ambitious professionals.