FG Signs MoU, Launches Free Training for 10 Million Nigerians

The Federal Government has signed a memorandum of understanding with six professional bodies to roll out a nationwide free skills training programme targeting 10 million Nigerians, with a focus on youths and women as part of a broader push for financial inclusion and economic empowerment.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who witnessed the signing ceremony in Abuja, said the initiative is designed to prepare Nigerians for emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing global economy. He described the programme as a strategic investment in human capital, stressing that equipping young people with relevant skills is central to unlocking the country’s demographic potential.

According to the Vice President, the training will cover digital literacy, vocational education, entrepreneurship, and professional certification. He said the government is prioritising inclusive access, particularly for women and underserved communities, to ensure that economic growth is widely shared.

Officials involved in the project said implementation will take place in phases across all states, using a combination of physical training centres and online platforms. The participating professional bodies are expected to provide curriculum development, trainers, and internationally recognised certifications to boost employability.

Government sources said the programme aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at reducing unemployment and poverty, while expanding Nigeria’s skilled workforce. They added that a monitoring framework has been built into the rollout to measure enrolment, completion rates, and post-training job placement.

Representatives of the professional organisations pledged long-term collaboration, noting that industry participation is essential to ensure the training reflects real labour market demands. They said the partnership bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical workplace skills.

Economic analysts have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely amid rising youth unemployment and global competition for talent. They cautioned, however, that sustained funding, transparency, and effective coordination will be critical to its success.

Authorities said registration details and eligibility criteria will be announced soon, encouraging Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity. The government maintained that skills development remains a cornerstone of its economic recovery strategy and a pathway to sustainable national growth.