Nigeria's Government Launches Skills Program for Youth Empowerment

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a plan to lift five million young Nigerians out of poverty through skills acquisition and empowerment programs under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS). Dr Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE) and coordinator of the initiative, made this announcement in Ibadan during the Oyo state phase of the program, which runs from September 28 to October 9.

The initiative aims to equip young Nigerians with market-relevant skills to enhance their economic independence and employability. In Oyo state, 200 participants are being trained in areas such as Graphics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), makeup artistry, and fashion designing.

Arogundade stated that the program not only focuses on skills acquisition but also connects beneficiaries with organizations and business opportunities. Additionally, 500 tablets will be distributed during the program's grand finale as part of the federal government’s digital empowerment drive.