Stakeholders Applaud FCMB Internship Initiative

As the latest cohort of 30 young graduates complete their internships through the First City Monument Bank-powered Flexxtern programme, partner organisations praise the initiative for its transformative impact on fresh graduates.

These graduates leave the programme equipped with practical skills, real-world experience, and a more direct path to career success.

The Flexxtern programme is a platform for self-discovery and career progression, said Group head of Human Resources at Signal Alliance Technology Holding, Yomi Adebanjo who is one of the programme’s long-term partners. “We have been part of this since 2021, and our experience has been remarkable. Our first Flexxtern is employed full-time with us, and the second performed equally well. This initiative is truly an opportunity to empower young graduates and set them on the path to achieving their dreams, he added.

Since its inception in 2016, the Flexxtern programme has provided over 200 young Nigerians with invaluable work experience through internships at reputable organisations. Designed for individuals aged 18 to 30, the initiative has become a gateway for launching careers across diverse industries. With each new season, the programme expands in scope and impact as more companies join the mission to empower next-generation professionals.

The Flexxterns deployed to us have significantly impacted our organisation, said vice president of GRC and Enterprise Fraud at ActivEdge Technologies, adding that, “Their contributions have been key to our success, and we are eager to continue this partnership to create more life-changing opportunities for young graduates.”

Also speaking, Ifeoluwa Adeyemo of Insight Publicis said: “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.”

The close-out ceremony for Flexxtern 7.0, held on September 19, 2024, in Lagos, celebrated the graduates and the continued collaboration between FCMB and its partners.

Divisional head of Corporate Services & Service Management at FCMB, Felicia Obozuwa, emphasised the importance of partnerships in building a brighter future for Nigerian youths, stressing that, “Our collaboration with leading organisations is rooted in a shared vision to nurture talent and drive economic development. The Flexxtern programme demonstrates what can be achieved when we unite to support youth empowerment. To the graduates, I urge you to believe in yourselves and strive to be the best in all you do.”

Group head of Corporate Affairs, FCMB, Diran Olojo highlighted the bank’s ongoing commitment to preparing young Nigerians for the future of work, noting that, “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.”

FCMB’s Flexxtern initiative has gained strong support from partners across industries, including law firms and tech companies, who commend the high calibre of participants. With organisations like Insight Publicis, ActivEdge Technologies, and Olaniwun Ajayi LP involved, the programme offers a variety of internships, ensuring participants gain experience in fields that match their academic backgrounds or career aspirations.