The Federal Government has unveiled a nationwide initiative to train seven million young Nigerians in vocational and digital skills to enhance employability, innovation, and self-reliance.
Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, announced the programme on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with a delegation from Germany’s IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
He said the initiative, to be implemented through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), forms part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Our goal is not merely to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will meaningfully contribute to the nation’s economy,” Olawande stated.
According to Mrs. Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the ministry, the programme underscores government’s commitment to providing industry-relevant training.
Olawande said the ministry is partnering with German and Nigerian institutions, including the Chambers Academy, the Nigerian Institute for Vocational Training and Corporate Development, and the German Chambers of Commerce, as well as the Ministries of Labour and Science.
He also announced plans to launch a digital learning platform under NIYA, similar to international platforms like Coursera, to expand access to skill training nationwide.
“The youth development strategy rests on three pillars — Support, Empowerment, and Protection — designed to help young Nigerians thrive in a globally competitive environment,” he said.
Dr. Matthias Leder, Chief Executive Officer of IHK Giessen-Friedberg, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youths through vocational education and legal migration programmes.
Leder disclosed that 300 Nigerian youths had completed A1-level German language certification under the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project, and would be honoured in Lagos on November 12.
He praised Germany’s dual training model, which allows apprentices to “earn while they learn,” and urged deeper cooperation between both nations to create more opportunities for young Nigerians.
