IHS Nigeria has launched the second cohort of its Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start Cloud Programme in partnership with Amazon Web Services and the Ilorin Innovation Hub, as part of efforts to strengthen digital skills development and prepare young Nigerians for employment opportunities in the growing cloud computing industry. The programme, themed Empowering Future Cloud Professionals Through Digital Skills Development, was officially launched during a virtual event on November 2, 2026, with 30 participants selected for the training.

The initiative builds on the achievements of its first cohort, which recorded a 96.7 per cent programme completion rate. According to the organisers, 15 of the 30 participants who were ready for early certification examinations sat for the AWS examinations, with all 15 recording a 100 per cent pass rate. One of the graduates also secured a grant to attend AWS re, a major cloud computing and artificial intelligence conference scheduled to hold in Las Vegas, United States. The second cohort is expected to acquire foundational cloud computing knowledge, practical technical competencies, professional skills and career support to prepare them for entry and mid-level positions in the technology sector.

Speaking on the initiative, Vice President, Operations (Process Excellence) at IHS Nigeria, Sanet Shepperson, said the programme was designed to extend beyond classroom training by creating employment pathways for participants after graduation. She explained that the company had introduced its Talent2Work initiative, an employer outreach programme aimed at connecting graduates with internships, entry-level employment and other opportunities across banking, telecommunications, fintech, consulting, cloud service providers and technology companies, including IHS itself. According to her, the objective is to establish a sustainable talent development pathway that Nigerian businesses can rely on to access skilled cloud professionals.

Also speaking, Director of Programmes at Ilorin Innovation Hub, Zumah Yahaya, appreciated IHS Towers, the Kwara State Government and Amazon Web Services for supporting the initiative, noting that decentralising technology training would expand access to digital opportunities beyond major commercial cities. The AWS re/Start programme provides practical training in cloud computing alongside professional development and career preparation, including technical support for participants seeking employment. The initiative is expected to contribute to closing the global cloud skills gap while positioning more Nigerian youths to participate in the expanding digital economy.