ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the commencement of applications for the second cohort of its Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme, aimed at enhancing skills acquisition and boosting employment.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, made this known in a post on his X handle on Monday, describing the initiative as a major part of the administration’s human capital development agenda.
“Today marks the opening of applications for the second cohort of our National TVET Programme, a key step in advancing human capital development,” he said.
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He explained that the first phase of the programme attracted strong nationwide interest, with more than 1.3 million applications recorded.
“Last year, over 1.3 million Nigerians applied, a powerful reminder of the growing demand for practical skills and the impact they can have on people’s lives and our economy,” he added.
Alausa further stated that the application portal would open at 4:00pm (WAT), encouraging Nigerians of all ages to take advantage of the opportunity.
“We are calling on every Nigerian, young or old, who has a dream, a vision for a better life, and a hardworking spirit to sign up. With TVET, you can build your own future,” he said.
Details on the programme portal show that applications reopened on April 13, 2026, offering fully funded training across a wide range of vocational and technical fields.
The initiative provides two training tracks: a six-month Short-Term Certificate programme for beginners, and a one-year Vocational Education and Innovation track for individuals with prior learning or informal experience.
Applicants are required to present a valid National Identification Number and Bank Verification Number, while candidates for the advanced track may also submit proof of prior learning or basic educational qualifications.
Participants will benefit from free tuition sponsored by the Federal Government, monthly stipends, practical training, and nationally recognised certification upon completion.
The programme also includes start-up support and access to business loans to help graduates establish enterprises in their chosen fields.
Training areas cover electrical installation, welding and fabrication, digital media, automobile repairs, fashion design, agriculture, and renewable energy, among others.
Training centres are spread across the six geopolitical zones, including federal and state technical colleges, as well as accredited private institutions.
The TVET programme is part of broader efforts by the administration of Bola Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s skills development system and tackle unemployment.
The minister recently engaged international partners in the United Kingdom to drive the next phase of Nigeria’s TVET reforms and expand global collaboration in vocational training.