FG to Empower 30,000 Youths in Second Phase of IDEAS–TVET Skills Programme
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to provide technical and vocational training for over 30,000 Nigerian youths under the second phase of the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS)–Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at a workshop on the Nigerian Youth Employment through Skills Acquisition Funds (TVET) scheme, the National Project Coordinator of the IDEAS Project, Blessing Ogwu, said the programme is targeted at equipping participants with industry-relevant skills that match current labour market demands.
According to Ogwu, the second round of the programme will commence on August 25 and will cover 36 different skill areas. The initiative is being driven by the Federal Ministry of Education, with financial support from the World Bank-backed IDEAS project, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s technical and vocational training system.
She noted that private sector participation is key to the programme’s success, as it would enhance the quality of training and improve employability. Out of the $200 million loan secured from the World Bank for the project, $130 million has already been deployed to fund its activities.
Launched in 2022, the IDEAS project is designed to modernize Nigeria’s skills acquisition system by addressing gaps in training, certification, and employment linkages.
“This TVET initiative is a deliberate effort by the current administration to reduce the skills deficit and improve job readiness among young Nigerians,” Ogwu stated.
“By collaborating with reputable Training Service Providers (TSPs), we will deliver top-quality vocational and technical training that meets industry standards. Our goal is to empower youths with the right skills and competencies to thrive in the job market, thereby driving economic growth.”
Also speaking, the IDEAS Project Technical Assistant, Prof. Ndem Ndiyo, said that about 97 TSPs have been engaged to deliver the training, with each expected to train between 100 and 300 participants, depending on their capacity.
He emphasized that the government is committed to reducing unemployment and sees skills training as a major solution.
On her part, the World Bank Co-Task Team Leader of the IDEAS Project, Dr. Mistura Rufai, disclosed that the second phase of the programme would run for six months and will not only focus on training but also ensure that participants receive certification under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
“We identified a huge gap in Nigeria’s skills ecosystem. Many young graduates are unemployed because of a mismatch between their qualifications and market needs. The IDEAS project is designed not just to train but to certify participants and support them towards sustainable employment,” Rufai explained.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s workforce capacity and help bridge the nation’s unemployment gap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the IDEAS–TVET initiative?
The IDEAS–TVET initiative is a Federal Government programme supported by the World Bank, aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with technical and vocational skills that align with industry needs.
2. How many youths will benefit in this second phase?
Over 30,000 youths will be trained in the second phase of the programme.
3. When will the second phase begin?
The training begins on August 25, 2025, and will run for six months.
4. How many skills areas will be covered?
The programme will cover 36 different skill areas.
5. Will participants receive certification?
Yes, participants will be certified under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) after completing their training.
6. Who funds the IDEAS project?
The programme is funded through a $200 million World Bank loan, with $130 million already released.
7. Who delivers the training?
Training is handled by 97 accredited Training Service Providers (TSPs) across the country.
