Donald Peterson: Touching Delta youths with skills acquisition
Donald Peterson
The Special Adviser to the Delta State Government on Entrepreneurship Development, Donald Peterson has tasked youths to be prepared for their future and acquire skills relevant to the demand of today’s market.
He spoke at Youth Empowerment forum in Asaba via his non governmental organization outfit, D-Peterson Foundation.
Donald Peterson who has built a repu, tation within Nigeria’s development and public policy space, stated that Nigerian youths should dig deep within and arm themselves with the required discipline and skills acquisition to become a better version of themselves. “The future awaits only those that prepare themselves and you need to do prepare yourself with the right skills to forge out a career and not give excuses why you cannot attain at your dreams,” says Peterson.
The professional with a background spanning academia, governance and nonprofit leadership, operates at the intersection of policy formulation and grassroots implementation working closely with state institutions and local communities to translate entrepreneurship policies into practical programmes aimed at job creation, small business development and inclusive economic participation across Delta State.
Peterson who is the President and Founder of the NGO, D-Peterson Foundation, dedicated to education, youth development and community empowerment, has implemented structured interventions supporting access to higher education, vocational and digital skills training, as well as small business grants—particularly targeting women and young people. Its impact has grown steadily, attracting attention as Nigeria continues to confront challenges related to youth unemployment, educational gaps and economic inclusion.
Speaking during the foundation’s 2025 Yuletide outreach programme, Peterson says, “The organisation was established in response to an urgent need for practical, community-based solutions. He noted that the foundation prioritises long-term impact over short-term relief, with a deliberate focus on equipping beneficiaries with skills and resources that promote self-reliance and sustainability.”
Peterson has also been vocal about the role of nonprofit organisations in national development. He argues that Nigeria’s social and economic challenges are too complex for a single approach, stressing that complementary initiatives can help reach underserved communities while fostering collaboration rather than competition within the development sector.
An academic by training, Peterson holds degrees in economics, business administration and finance from institutions in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He has earned two doctoral degrees and is currently completing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). His academic portfolio includes research publications as well as professional training in leadership and management.
