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PRESIDENT TINUBU FLAGS OFF TRAINING OF 260,000 NIGERIANS UNDER NATIONAL TVET SKILLS PROGRAMME

4 months ago
Usman Ishaq Shehu
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The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has commenced the training of 260,000 Nigerians under the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programme aimed at equipping citizens with practical, industry-relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

The initiative, coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Education, is a key component of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to promote skills development, job creation, and economic self-reliance among Nigerian youths.

According to the Ministry, over 1.3 million Nigerians applied for the programme, out of which 960,000 were verified through the National Identity Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) systems. The first batch of 260,000 beneficiaries has now begun training across 2,600 accredited centres in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The programme focuses on 28 priority trades across key sectors such as livestock production, fashion and garment making, plumbing, tiling, GSM repairs, solar installation, and modern farming. It emphasises 90 percent practical training and 10 percent theory to ensure hands-on skill development and employability.

Each participant will receive a monthly stipend of ₦22,500, comprising ₦17,500 for upkeep and ₦5,000 for transportation. Training centres will also be supported with ₦45,000 per trainee to guarantee quality delivery.

At the end of the programme, beneficiaries will receive starter packs and access to affordable loans from the Bank of Industry to help them start small-scale enterprises and become self-reliant.

Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, described the initiative as a major stride toward President Tinubu’s goal of building a skilled and productive workforce.

“The Renewed Hope Skills Programme is not just about training; it’s about empowerment, dignity of labour, and economic inclusion. Every participant will leave this programme ready to create value and contribute meaningfully to national growth,” he said.

Stakeholders and development experts have applauded President Tinubu’s administration for prioritising skills acquisition as a sustainable pathway to tackle unemployment and reposition Nigeria’s economy for inclusive growth.