President Bola Tinubu has announced the federal government’s commitment to establishing 24 skills and innovation hubs and entrepreneurship centers nationwide. This initiative was disclosed during the Children’s Day celebration in Abuja, themed “Enhancing the Total Wellbeing of the Nigerian Child through Quality Education and Skills Development.”
Represented by the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing the well-being and development of Nigerian children through transformative educational policies. These include creating a conducive learning environment, establishing a National Education Data System, approving skill development across all education levels, and training teachers in digital skills.
Key Initiatives Announced:
- Skills and Innovation Hubs: The government plans to establish 24 hubs nationwide to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Private Sector Innovation Enterprise Centres: These centers will deliver skills acquisition programs in collaboration with the private sector.
- Vocational Centres: Building 91 vocational centers in secondary schools to ensure comprehensive skill development at all educational levels
- Collaborative Efforts: Working with state commissioners, education boards, and civil society organizations to enhance education and skills development for children.
Government’s Commitment to Child Welfare
The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, assured children that their rights would be protected, emphasizing that the administration would support vulnerable groups, including children.
Mandate Secretary of Women Affairs, FCT Administration**, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, highlighted efforts under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to ensure every child in the FCT has access to quality education and skill development opportunities.
Children’s Parliament Advocacy
Rahama Waziri, Speaker of the Children’s Parliament in the Federal Capital Territory, emphasized the importance of empowering children with education and skills for sustainable national growth. She noted that education is essential for overcoming poverty and achieving societal progress.
President Tinubu said, “The government is committed to establishing 24 skills and innovation hubs and entrepreneurship centers across the country.”
Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye also comments, “When it comes to fighting for your rights, I shall always be there for you because, as Mr. President said, the poor shall breathe and the children are one of the vulnerable.”
The federal government’s initiatives aim to provide Nigerian children with quality education and skill development, essential for their overall well-being and the country’s economic growth. The commitment to establishing skills and innovation hubs is a significant step towards achieving these goals.
