FG to train 7m youths in vocational, digital skills

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to empower seven million youths through dual vocational training and digital skills development programmes, aimed at fostering self-reliance, employability, and innovation nationwide.

Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany, in Abuja on Tuesday.

Mrs Omolara Esan, Director, Information and Public Relations, confirmed the initiative in a statement, highlighting the government’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills.

Olawande explained that the government, through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), was strengthening partnerships with German and Nigerian institutions to expand access to vocational and digital training under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Our goal is not just to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” the minister said.

He emphasised the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with institutions such as the Chambers Academy, Nigerian Institute for Vocational Training and Corporate Development, and German Chambers of Commerce, as well as relevant ministries of Labour and Science.

Olawande further revealed plans to inaugurate a digital learning platform under the Nigerian Youth Academy, modelled after global platforms like Coursera, to provide easily accessible skill acquisition opportunities nationwide.

The minister described the youth development strategy as a tripartite framework anchored on Support, Empowerment, and Protection, designed to ensure Nigerian youths thrive in a globally competitive environment.

“This collaboration is not just about programmes; it is about building the future of our young people.

“Together, we can ensure Nigerian youth are empowered, innovative, and globally competitive,” Olawande added.”

Dr Matthias Leder, CEO of IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce, reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youths through vocational training and legal migration initiatives.

He hailed ongoing bilateral programmes, noting that 300 Nigerian youths had been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project, to be honoured in Lagos on Nov. 12 after completing A1 German language certification.

Leder commended the German dual training model, where apprentices earned from day one, and called for stronger cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand opportunities for youths and deepen bilateral relations.