The Federal Government has inaugurated the Ladela Educational Institute in Abuja to provide Nigerian youths with practical, employable skills through fully-funded, tuition-free vocational training. The institute, accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), was unveiled on Wednesday during a press briefing.
Angela Ajala, Executive Director of the institute, described it as a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centre dedicated to building a skilled, self-reliant, and prosperous workforce. She explained that the programme is tailored to offer life-changing opportunities for Nigerian youths aged 18 to 35, particularly those without formal education.
“Today marks a defining moment – not just for us as an institution, but for every young person with a dream and the determination to build something with their hands. We are proud to be building Nigeria one skilled hand at a time,” she said.
Ajala added that courses at the centre would be delivered by industry professionals to ensure that trainees not only acquire technical knowledge but also gain industry exposure, confidence, and practical competence.
She announced that five vocational programmes would be offered initially, each running for six months. These include: Garment Making, Hospitality and Catering, Creative Digital Skills, Social Media Management, and Solar Installation and Maintenance.
Interested applicants are advised to register via the official NBTE portal. The programme is open to Nigerian youths aged 18 to 35 who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
Speaking at the launch, Pauline Ajibili, Deputy Director at the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), said graduates of the institute would receive nationally recognised certifications to enhance their employability both within Nigeria and abroad.
She revealed that trainees would receive a monthly stipend of ₦22,500 to support transportation costs throughout the training period. Additionally, each graduate will be provided with a starter pack comprising tools and materials relevant to their area of training, enabling them to launch their professional or entrepreneurial careers.
“This is a national initiative that is already underway, with registration currently open and placements ongoing. Once the registration window closes, the NBTE will assign trainees to centres nationwide based on location and capacity,” Ajibili explained.
She urged young Nigerians to take full advantage of the opportunity, saying: “There is no reason for anybody not to be skilled, not to be working, and not to be in business.”
The launch of the institute underscores the government’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment and closing critical skill gaps through hands-on, practical training – key priorities for human capital development in Nigeria.
