Career development initiative BJUMP has opened applications for the fifth cohort of its flagship programme, MET Stars Academy, as it seeks to equip emerging Nigerian professionals with practical skills, industry mentorship and career opportunities.
Applications opened on October 15 and will close on November 15, 2026. The programme is designed to prepare participants for careers across marketing, entertainment and technology, with applicants expected from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
BJUMP said the initiative aims to build a stronger talent pipeline for Corporate Africa through structured learning, professional mentorship and real-world industry exposure.
BJUMP Marks Five Years of Talent Development
Speaking at a luncheon in Lagos to mark the organisation’s fifth anniversary, BJUMP founder and WhyFinite Chief Executive Officer, Bolaji Junaid, said the initiative would build on its achievements while expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
He said the organisation’s long-term ambition was to establish an institution capable of developing professional talent and creating opportunities for future generations.
Junaid also disclosed that BJUMP had become a registered non-profit organisation with the Corporate Affairs Commission. He said its mission was to create sustainable impact rather than distribute profits to owners or trustees.
The organisation’s founding board of trustees is chaired by Aishah Ahmad, a global finance adviser and former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Industry Leaders Back Professional Development
BJUMP trustee Taopheek Babayeju said Nigeria needed to strengthen both entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship by supporting people who build businesses alongside professionals who develop expertise and improve established organisations.
He said both groups were essential to job creation, organisational growth and national development.
Folake “Steaze” Johnson, chief executive officer of FSJ Company and a BJUMP co-mentor, praised the programme’s approach, citing its recruitment process, mentor selection and overall structure.
Abayomi Ayoola, founder of Expose Marketing Solutions, also described BJUMP as a key partner in talent sourcing and development. He said his organisation had worked with the initiative for two years and recently updated its standard operating procedures based on lessons from the partnership.
Through MET Stars Academy and its wider programmes, BJUMP aims to connect emerging professionals with experienced industry practitioners and provide the practical experience and networks needed to advance their careers.
Interested applicants have until November 15, 2026, to apply for the programme’s fifth cohort.
Source: Punch