By Ahmed Ahmed
The federal government has commenced applications for the second phase of its Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme, expanding efforts to strengthen skills development and address unemployment across Nigeria.
Announcing the rollout recently, Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a critical intervention in building the country’s human capital base. According to him, “the initiative is a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s human capital base.”
The programme builds on the first phase, which recorded significant uptake nationwide. The minister disclosed that “more than 1.3 million applications were submitted nationwide,” an outcome he said reflects growing demand for practical, job-oriented skills.
Alausa further noted that the application portal for the new cohort officially opened at 4:00 p.m. (WAT) on April 13, 2026, urging Nigerians across different backgrounds to participate. He encouraged eligible candidates to take advantage of the opportunity to acquire technical and vocational competencies that align with labour market needs.
The TVET programme offers fully funded training across a wide range of fields, with participants receiving free tuition, monthly stipends, and hands-on instruction. Successful candidates will also be awarded nationally recognised certifications upon completion, positioning them for employment or enterprise development.
Programme details indicate two structured training pathways. The first is a six-month short-term certificate course designed for beginners, while the second is a one-year vocational education and innovation track tailored for individuals with prior knowledge or informal experience in specific trades.
Eligibility requirements include possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN). Applicants seeking entry into the advanced track may also be required to provide evidence of prior learning or basic academic qualifications.
Beyond technical training, the programme incorporates post-completion support mechanisms, including access to start-up funding and business loans. This component is intended to enable participants to transition from training into self-employment or small business operations.
The training spans multiple sectors, including electrical installation, welding and fabrication, automobile maintenance, digital media, agriculture, fashion design, and renewable energy. Delivery will take place across centres located in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, including federal and state technical colleges as well as accredited private institutions.
The initiative forms part of the broader economic agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places emphasis on job creation, skills acquisition, and economic empowerment as drivers of inclusive growth.
In a related development, the minister recently engaged with international partners in the United Kingdom to deepen collaboration on vocational training reforms. The engagement is aimed at aligning Nigeria’s skills development framework with global standards and strengthening the long-term impact of the programme.
