The Federal Government has announced plans to empower at least seven million Nigerian youths through dual vocational training and digital skills development programmes aimed at improving employability and entrepreneurship.
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany, held in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a statement signed by Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry, Olawande said the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills that promote innovation, self-reliance, and productivity.
He noted that through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), the government is expanding partnerships with German and Nigerian institutions to provide more accessible vocational and digital training opportunities in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for youth empowerment.
“Our goal is not just to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” the minister stated.
He also reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to deepen collaboration with institutions such as the Chambers Academy, the Nigerian Institute for Vocational Training and Corporate Development, and the German Chambers of Commerce. According to him, these partnerships will involve relevant ministries and agencies, including those of Labour and Science, to broaden vocational and digital learning opportunities nationwide.
Chief Executive Officer of the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Matthias Leder, commended the Federal Government for its leadership in advancing youth skills development and reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth through vocational training and legal migration initiatives.
Leder revealed that 300 Nigerian youths have been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project and will be honoured in Lagos on November 12, 2025, after completing their A1 German language training.
He praised the German dual training model, which allows apprentices to earn while they learn, and called for stronger cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand youth employment opportunities and deepen bilateral relations.
