In a bold move to tackle youth
unemployment and foster economic growth, the Federal Government of Nigeria has
rolled out a nationwide Technical and Vocational Education and Training
(TVET) initiative. The program offers eligible Nigerians free skills
training alongside a monthly stipend of ₦22,500, aimed at covering
transportation and training-related expenses.
This landmark initiative is designed
to empower Nigerian youths with in-demand, hands-on skills that can boost
employability, encourage entrepreneurship, and reduce dependence on
white-collar jobs. It is a collaborative effort between the Federal Ministry
of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and
relevant training and regulatory bodies, with centres accredited across all 36
states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Bridging the Skills Gap in Nigeria
At the heart of the programme is a
mission to close the widening gap between academic knowledge and practical
skills in Nigeria’s workforce. Many industries in Nigeria and globally are
facing a shortage of workers with relevant technical abilities, and this
program is a direct response to that challenge.
According to the National Bureau
of Statistics (NBS), youth unemployment in Nigeria stood at over 33%
as of early 2023. The TVET initiative seeks to reverse that trend by making
technical skills training accessible, appealing, and affordable to young
Nigerians, especially those between the ages of 18 and 35, who are often
excluded from conventional employment pathways.
Empowerment Through Skill Acquisition
Speaking at the inauguration of Ladela
Educational Institute in Abuja—one of the newly accredited training
centres—Angela Ajala, Executive Director of the institute, emphasized
the transformational potential of the programme.
“This initiative is not just about
acquiring skills. It is about building a resilient, creative, and self-reliant
generation,” said Ajala. “We are investing in the productive power of our
youth. What they build, cook, sew, design, and install will shape the future of
Nigeria.”
Ajala highlighted that each
participant, upon completion of the six-month intensive training, will
receive a starter pack from the government to help launch their own
business or establish themselves as skilled freelancers or workers.
Participants will be trained in
high-demand sectors, including:
- Fashion design and garment production
- Solar panel installation and maintenance
- Social media communication and digital marketing
- Hospitality and catering
- Creative media and digital content production
Ajala added that courses are
delivered by seasoned professionals with real-world experience, ensuring
trainees graduate with job-ready competence, industry networks, and strong
entrepreneurial capabilities.
Nationally Recognised Certification
Pauline Ajibili, Deputy
Director at the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB),
reinforced that participants will receive nationally certified
qualifications upon successful completion of the program. These
certifications will boost their chances of securing employment or starting
businesses both locally and internationally.
Ajibili noted that this initiative
aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to promote vocational and
technical education as a foundation for sustainable development. "Our goal
is to certify young Nigerians who can become job creators, not just job
seekers," she said.
She also clarified that the ₦22,500
stipend is strictly meant to cover participants’ transportation and basic
training expenses. “We want to eliminate barriers that could prevent young
people from participating. Transportation costs, especially in urban and rural
areas, can be a serious hindrance, and this stipend helps to offset that
burden,” she said.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged
to visit the official TVET portal at https://www.tvet.education.gov.ng
to view the list of accredited centres and complete their registration.
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens, aged between 18 and 35 years, and
must be ready to commit to a full-time, six-month training programme.
Each training centre is required to
meet strict accreditation standards set by NBTE to ensure quality delivery,
safe learning environments, and industry relevance.
A Step Toward Economic Transformation
This TVET initiative is more than a
skills development program—it is part of a national economic transformation
agenda. By prioritising youth empowerment, practical education, and
entrepreneurship, the government is investing in a future where more Nigerians
have the tools and confidence to thrive economically.
The broader goal is to create a
dynamic economy driven by home-grown talent, with citizens who are
well-equipped to participate in emerging sectors like renewable energy, digital
innovation, creative industries, and sustainable manufacturing.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the
challenges of a post-pandemic economy, initiatives like TVET offer a glimpse
into a future where skills are currency, and every Nigerian has the
opportunity to build a productive, dignified life.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, educational, or vocational advice. Interested applicants are advised to verify all details through the official NBTE portal and consult with relevant authorities before enrolling.
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