In a groundbreaking initiative, the Nigeria Entrepreneurship Youth Initiative (NEYI) has launched the first-ever “Scoutpreneurship in Tech Bootcamp” in Nigeria. This historic program is powered by the Abeokuta North Scout District in collaboration with Egba Province, Ogun State Council, Scout Association of Nigeria. The bootcamp is set to hold from March 26th – 30th, 2025, at the NEYI Techpreneurship Hub, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

A First of Its Kind – Open to All Scouts!

One important highlight of this initiative is that it is open to all scout members, regardless of their rank or training level. While the program will serve as part of the First Class Training Course, it is not limited to scouts undergoing this training. Any Boy Scout who is eager to learn tech and entrepreneurship skills is welcome to participate.

This decision reflects the inclusive vision of NEYI and the Scouts Association, ensuring that every scout—from new recruits to experienced leaders—has an opportunity to gain valuable digital and vocational skills.

This initiative aims to empower Boy Scouts with essential tech skills, including digital marketing, mobile cybersecurity, website development and app development, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning. In addition, participants will receive vocational training in crafting camp bags, laptop bags, and purses, ensuring they gain both technical and entrepreneurial skills for the future.

“A Game-Changer for Scouts” – NEYI President Speaks

Speaking on the significance of this initiative, Adefisoye Adeshola, popularly known as Mr. Diligent, and the President of NEYI, emphasized that the program aligns with global goals such as SDG for Scouts, entrepreneurship, and tech education.

“We are fully aware of the advocacy of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) towards impacting scouts through tech education and entrepreneurial skills. This is one of the reasons why NEYI is fully committed to rendering free tech and digital skills training to scouts. Through this initiative, we are integrating scouting principles with 21st-century technology and innovation. It is a step towards fostering self-reliance, digital empowerment, and leadership among young people,” he stated.

The President of Nigeria Entrepreneurship Youth Initiative – Mr. Diligent , added by saying, Scouting has always been about leadership, survival skills, discipline, and community service. However, in today’s digital world, it is essential for scouts to also be equipped with technology-driven skills that will enable them to compete globally and create opportunities for themselves.

With over 57 million members worldwide, the Scouting Movement has played a critical role in shaping young leaders through its principles of duty, service, and personal development. By introducing tech and entrepreneurship training, this initiative is expanding the traditional scouting curriculum to prepare scouts for the future.

The Scoutpreneurship in Tech Bootcamp aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
✔ SDG 4 – Quality Education
✔ SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
✔ SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

“Through this program, scouts will not only gain digital skills but also be trained on how to turn their knowledge into entrepreneurial ventures, promoting self-employment and economic sustainability” he added.

Official Meeting with Community Leaders and Scouts Executives

During an official visit to the NEYI Techpreneurship Hub, Dr. Festus Femi, the Chairman of the host community, warmly received Scouter Felix Olukoyejo Folarin – District Scout Commissioner, Abeokuta North, and other scout representatives. Dr. Femi commended the initiative, describing it as a “welcome development” and a huge opportunity for scouts and the local community.

L-R District Scout Commissioner Abeokuta North & Rep, N.E.Y.I President, Araromi Community Chairman

Dr. Festus, who revealed he was once a scout during his school days, expressed his excitement about hosting the program. He further advised that an official letter be sent to the community for proper acknowledgment and assured that the community would provide an enabling environment for the event.

Scouter Felix Olukoyejo Folarin, the District Scout Commissioner, Abeokuta North, also praised the partnership, stating that the collaboration with N.E.Y.I is a major milestone in empowering scouts beyond traditional scouting activities.

Also present at the meeting was Mrs. Adefisoye Anuoluwapo, the Head of Operations for NEYI, who reaffirmed NEYI’s commitment to leveraging technology and entrepreneurship to create sustainable opportunities for young people. She emphasized that this initiative would equip scouts with practical skills that will prepare them for a technology-driven world .

She also recognized and appreciated the commitment of the boards and planning committee from NEYI, which includes:

Scouter Godfrey Lawan (Waterboi)
Daniel Azeez – Head of Technical, NEYI
Scouter Damilare – Head of Protocol, NEYI

Recognition of Key Scout Leaders at the Meeting

During the meeting, several Scout Executives and Leaders were acknowledged by Scouter Felix Olukoyejo Folarin for their contributions to the success of the upcoming initiative:

Scouter Tunde Oluwemimo – Provincial Commissioner
Scouter Joshua Onaniyi – Assistant District Commissioner (ADC) Training
Scouter Daniel Makinde – Assistant District Commissioner (ADC) Admin
Akela Feyishayo Osanyinpeju – Chairperson, Scouter in Council
Scouter Samson Oyelumade – ADC Youth
Scouter Israel Awhana – District Scout Leader 1
Scouter Feranmi Owolabi – District Scout Leader 2
Scouter Nicholas Akinsehinde – Chairman, Scouter in Council & National Leader
Mr. Abdulrahmon Oreitan (Orex Infinity) – National Headquarters Commissioner for Youth

Conclusion

The Scoutpreneurship in Tech Bootcamp marks a historic moment in Nigerian scouting, setting a new precedent for integrating technology and entrepreneurship into scouting programs. With NEYI at the forefront of youth empowerment, this initiative will equip young scouts with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy while fostering creativity, innovation, and self-reliance.

As preparations continue, scouts and stakeholders are encouraged to register for this life-changing opportunity and be part of history in the making.