Federal Government Launches Poverty Reduction Training Initiative

The federal government has urged state governments to partner in implementing the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS), which aims to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty within ten years. Dr Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, made this call in a statement.

The NPRGS has begun its rollout with a training session in Oyo State, following its first training cohort in Abuja that started on June 30, 2025. This initial program focused on cybersecurity, web development, and solar energy installation, attracting over 7,000 applicants.

The initiative is expanding across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, with 200 trainees selected from each zone, benefiting a total of 1,200 youths. In Oyo State, training will commence on September 28, 2026, covering graphics, artificial intelligence design, makeup, and fashion design.

Participants will receive training kits, including laptops and starter kits, aimed at equipping them with practical skills to reduce unemployment and promote entrepreneurship.