FG Targets Five Million Nigerians Through Skills Acquisition Programme

The Federal Government has announced plans to empower five million young Nigerians through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programmes designed to improve employability and support sustainable livelihoods. The initiative is being implemented under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy and is focused on equipping young people with practical skills that can be converted into employment and business opportunities. The latest phase of the programme began in Oyo State on Monday, September 28, and will run until October 9. Speaking during the commencement of the programme in Ibadan, the Senior Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Dr Abiola Arogundade, said the initiative would eventually be extended to other states and geopolitical zones. In Oyo State, 200 young Nigerians are currently receiving training in areas including graphics and artificial intelligence, makeup artistry and fashion designing. According to the Federal Government, 30 participants are being trained in graphics and AI, while 85 participants each are receiving training in makeup artistry and fashion designing. The government said the programme is not limited to classroom training, as beneficiaries are expected to receive support that can help them move from acquiring skills to establishing sustainable livelihoods. As part of the Oyo programme, 500 tablets are also expected to be distributed during the grand finale, while participants are expected to receive items including laptops, sewing machines and makeup kits to support their entrepreneurial activities. The government said the wider programme is intended to address unemployment and poverty by giving young Nigerians practical skills that can be used in the labour market or for self-employment. The initiative also places particular attention on emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and digital technology, reflecting the growing demand for technology-related skills in the global economy. For many young Nigerians facing a difficult employment market, the programme represents another government-backed pathway into vocational training, entrepreneurship and digital work. The Federal Government says the ultimate objective is to create young people who can become economically self-reliant while also transferring useful skills to other members of their communities.