FG Targets 70,000 Youths in New Market-Driven Skills Programme
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to equip 70,000 young Nigerians with industry-relevant skills under a nationwide initiative designed to improve employability, promote entrepreneurship and bridge the country’s growing skills gap.
The programme, coordinated through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is part of the government’s broader strategy to prepare young people for opportunities in high-demand sectors, including technology, construction, renewable energy, agriculture, manufacturing and the creative economy. The initiative is expected to combine technical training with digital literacy, business development and mentorship to ensure participants are job-ready. (youthdevelopment.gov.ng)
According to the ministry, the training will be aligned with labour market demands and delivered in collaboration with accredited training institutions, private-sector employers and development partners. Participants will receive practical, competency-based instruction aimed at improving their chances of securing employment or establishing their own businesses.
Officials said the programme forms part of ongoing efforts to tackle youth unemployment and strengthen Nigeria’s human capital development agenda. By focusing on market-driven skills, the government hopes to reduce the mismatch between graduates’ qualifications and employers’ needs while fostering innovation and productivity across key industries.
Beyond technical training, beneficiaries are expected to gain access to career guidance, entrepreneurship support and networking opportunities to help them transition into the workforce. Selected participants may also be linked to internship and apprenticeship placements through partnerships with private-sector organisations.
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding youth empowerment programmes and supporting economic growth through skills development. Stakeholders have welcomed the plan, noting that sustained investment in practical education and vocational training is critical to unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s youthful population and addressing long-standing unemployment challenges.
