The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who described the initiative as a cornerstone of the administration’s broader human capital development strategy under President Bola Tinubu.
According to the minister, the programme’s first phase attracted overwhelming interest, with more than 1.3 million applications submitted nationwide—an indication of the rising demand for practical, job-ready skills among Nigerians.
Applications for the new cohort officially opened on April 13, 2026, with the portal going live at 4:00pm (WAT). Prospective participants from across the country, regardless of age, are encouraged to apply, particularly those seeking to improve their livelihoods through hands-on training and technical expertise.
The TVET programme offers fully funded training in a wide range of vocational and technical fields. It is structured into two main tracks: a six-month short-term certificate course tailored for beginners, and a one-year Vocational Education and Innovation track designed for individuals with some level of prior training or informal experience.
To ensure accessibility while maintaining standards, applicants are required to provide a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN). Those applying 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, alongside monthly stipends and practical, hands-on training. Upon completion, graduates will receive nationally recognised certifications, positioning them for employment or entrepreneurial opportunities.
Beyond training, the programme includes start-up support and access to business financing, enabling beneficiaries to establish ventures in their chosen fields. Available training areas span multiple sectors, including electrical installation, welding and fabrication, digital media, automobile repair, fashion design, agriculture, and renewable energy.
Training will be delivered through centres spread across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, incorporating federal and state technical colleges as well as accredited private institutions.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to reform Nigeria’s skills development ecosystem, reduce unemployment, and align the workforce with evolving industry demands. It also builds on recent engagements with international partners, particularly in the United Kingdom, aimed at strengthening vocational education frameworks and fostering global collaboration.