Nigeria’s N-Power Scheme is undergoing a major reform aimed at equipping young people with market-ready skills and providing financial support for entrepreneurship. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated this overhaul as part of a broader strategy to enhance job creation and economic empowerment, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.
The revamped N-Power Scheme will shift its focus from traditional training to industry-relevant skills that connect participants directly to the labor market. Presidential aide Dada Olusegun explained that training programs will now align with private sector needs, ensuring that young Nigerians gain skills that are in high demand.
Additionally, the initiative will leverage cooperative clusters to boost employment. Under this system, participants can access low-interest credit facilities ranging from N300,000 to N400,000, enabling them to start or expand small businesses. This financial support is designed to address economic marginalization, particularly among women and young entrepreneurs.
To support these reforms, the Nigerian government has procured over 100,000 empowerment items and allocated N32.7 billion for the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) in 2025. This funding will facilitate skill development, credit access, and other initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and driving economic growth.
Olusegun noted that 2025 will be a “year of rewards” for Nigerians who have endured recent economic reforms, with the N-Power revamp serving as a key pillar of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
By moving towards a market-driven model, the N-Power Scheme is positioning Nigerian youths for sustainable employment and entrepreneurship. The introduction of financial support mechanisms, such as low-interest credit, will further encourage self-employment and small business growth, helping to reduce the country’s high unemployment rates.
As Nigeria enters 2025, this reform marks a significant step in reshaping youth empowerment, ensuring that skills development translates into real economic opportunities. With a focus on inclusivity and long-term impact, the N-Power Scheme is set to become a transformative force for Nigeria’s workforce and economy.
