As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to grow, financial technology companies are emerging as key drivers of youth employment and skills development, with firms like PalmPay investing directly in training programmes designed to prepare young Nigerians for careers in the tech sector. Beyond digital payments and mobile wallets, fintech is increasingly shaping how young people acquire practical skills, gain work experience and secure employment in a rapidly evolving economy.
Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem is now regarded as one of the fastest growing in Africa. In the Financial Times Fastest Growing Fintechs in Africa 2025 ranking, PalmPay was named the number one fintech company on the continent. The Dealroom 2025 Global Tech Ecosystem Report also lists Lagos among the world’s leading emerging technology hubs, while Fintech News Africa reports that Nigeria hosts more than 430 fintech companies, representing a 70 percent increase within one year. Industry observers note that each new startup creates fresh demand for engineers, product managers, compliance officers, customer experience specialists and operations professionals.
PalmPay has sought to translate this sector growth into direct opportunities through its Purple Woman initiative, a programme designed to reduce the gender gap in technology by equipping young women with practical, career ready skills. The initiative combines structured training with internships within PalmPay’s teams, allowing participants to gain hands on experience and workplace exposure that can lead to employment. Over the past two years, the programme has trained young women in software engineering, data analysis, product management, DevOps, digital marketing and UX and UI design.
The focus on women addresses a significant imbalance in the industry. According to Women in Tech Nigeria, women account for just 17 percent of the country’s tech workforce. By expanding access to technical training and real world experience, the initiative aims to widen participation and strengthen inclusion within the growing digital economy. Company representatives say the goal is not only to teach technical skills but also to open sustainable career pathways.
In addition to the Purple Woman initiative, PalmPay operates a graduate trainee programme that supports recent graduates as they transition from academic study to professional practice through mentorship, structured training and performance based employment opportunities. Analysts say such investments are helping to bridge the gap between Nigeria’s youthful, tech savvy population and the labour market, with fintech firms increasingly playing a central role in building talent, expanding career opportunities and contributing to long term economic growth.