FG to establish 270 vocational training centres nationwide

The federal government has announced plans to set up 270 vocational training centres across Nigeria as part of its initiative to encourage entrepreneurship and skills development.

Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical) of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mr Rasaq Akinyemi, made this known in Abuja during a public hearing on nine legislative bills. These include a proposal to create the National Institute for Technical and Vocational Education in Kalgo, Kebbi State, and two Federal Colleges of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition in Bunza, Kebbi State, and Maiduguri, Borno State. The hearing was organised by the House Committee on Alternative Education, chaired by Hon. Ibrahim Aliyu.

Commending the ongoing efforts to address youth unemployment, skills gaps, and to boost innovation, Mr Akinyemi noted that “strengthening and expanding these existing structures could be a more cost-effective and timely approach.”

He also pointed out that “establishing and sustaining federal institutions requires significant capital and recurrent funding. With current budgetary constraints, securing a consistent source of funding for infrastructure, personnel, and operational costs remains a concern.”

Mr Akinyemi emphasised the importance of clearly defining the governance framework for the proposed institutions to ensure they operate with “efficiency, transparency, and accountability.”

He reaffirmed the commission’s continued commitment to working in partnership with the House and other relevant stakeholders to advance the landscape of education and vocational training in Nigeria. He stated that a “clear delineation of roles between federal ministries, agencies, state, local government areas, and institutions themselves is critical.”

Several stakeholders from federal constituencies where the proposed institutions would be located also expressed strong support for the bills, citing the educational, social, and economic benefits they would bring to the country.

In her contribution, the representative from the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education, Hauwa Alkali, also voiced her support.

Delivering the keynote address, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen stressed the House’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youth through vocational and skills training.

He said, “In a world that is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and changing market demands, we must equip our young people with the necessary skills to thrive. The establishment of these centres is not just a policy initiative; it is a commitment to the future of our nation.”

He added, “Again, it is common knowledge that vocational training and entrepreneurial skill acquisition are a foundation and catalyst to the growth of nations like Nigeria, as her economy depends on the contributions of this vital sector. Nigeria, by any standard, is well endowed with a youthful population readily available to acquire vocational training and entrepreneurial skills and use the same for self-reliance and nation building. The fact that our vocational and entrepreneurial skill acquisition sector has not translated into a desirable outcome has remained a concern.”

The Speaker, represented by Hon. Alexander Mascot, assured, “As legislators charged with lawmaking, oversight, and representing the sector, the Committee is not only focused on making the sector a key alternative source of revenue and economic growth; we are also poised to contribute to the development of centers that will impact skills and knowledge for our nation through progressive legislation.”