June 16, 2025 – Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Government has formally launched a nationwide Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Empowerment Programme aimed at equipping over 30,000 Nigerian youths with practical skills for economic self-reliance and productivity.
The program, flagged off in Abuja, is part of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is designed to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and industry needs. It focuses on empowering youths with hands-on experience in trades such as solar panel installation, tailoring, ICT, welding, and other demand-driven vocations.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Education emphasized the administration’s commitment to repositioning the education sector through strategic investments in skill acquisition. “We are shifting from paper-based qualifications to practical, marketable skills that align with the needs of today’s economy,” he said.
The initiative is in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the Bank of Industry (BOI), and various industry partners, who will provide start-up kits and financial support to successful trainees.
According to Dr. Olodo of the Federal Science and Technical College (FSTC) Orozo, the program marks a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against youth unemployment. “Skills are the new currency. This project prepares our young people to become job creators rather than job seekers,” he noted.
The program will be implemented across all six geopolitical zones and will include both in-person and digital training modules to ensure wide accessibility.
With a focus on inclusivity, priority will also be given to women, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms have been put in place to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the scheme.
The TVET empowerment program is expected to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s efforts to diversify the economy and promote sustainable development through a skilled and resilient workforce.
