The Federal Government has launched a nationwide Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative aimed at equipping 1.3 million Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills. The program, which operates across 1,600 accredited training centers, seeks to address the country’s long-standing skills gap and strengthen the workforce in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa stated that the initiative has already received over 1.3 million applications nationwide. “Training activities are underway across our accredited centers, equipping young Nigerians with competencies in priority sectors including manufacturing, construction, energy, automotive services, agriculture, technology, and the digital economy,” he said.
To enhance the program’s quality and reach, the ministry is engaging leading industrial and manufacturing firms, including Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, Dangote Cement, Julius Berger, MTN, Airtel, Oando, and TotalEnergies, as partners. Companies are invited to provide training facilities, contribute technical expertise, support curriculum alignment, and facilitate industrial attachments and experiential learning opportunities for trainees.
“These partnerships will play a transformative role in building a highly skilled, globally competitive workforce capable of driving Nigeria’s industrialization agenda,” Alausa added.
The initiative also includes financial support for participants. The first tranche of payments has been released, providing monthly stipends of N22,500 to over 42,000 youths. The funds cover upkeep, transport, training center fees, and startup packs for graduates. The program aims to train one million Nigerians in practical skills such as auto mechanics, welding, and more, ensuring participants are ready to contribute to the country’s economic growth and industrial development.
The TVET initiative marks one of the largest skills development drives in Nigeria’s history, reinforcing the government’s commitment to empowering youth and supporting MSMEs by developing a skilled, competent workforce.
