The Federal Government has announced a plan to empower at least seven million Nigerian youths through dual vocational training and digital skills development programmes.
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany, held in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a statement by Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the minister said the initiative reflects the government’s strong commitment to equipping young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills that encourage self-reliance, innovation, and employability.
He stated that the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), is working closely with German and Nigerian institutions to expand access to vocational and digital learning opportunities in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Our goal is not just to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” the minister said.
Olawande explained that the ministry is strengthening partnerships with the Chambers Academy, the Nigerian Institute for Vocational Training and Corporate Development, and the German Chambers of Commerce, alongside relevant ministries and agencies including Labour and Science, to widen learning access for young people.
He added that the ministry will soon launch a digital learning platform under the Nigerian Youth Academy, modelled after international systems such as Coursera, to make skill acquisition more accessible to young Nigerians across the country.
The minister described the youth development strategy as a tripartite framework anchored on Support, Empowerment, and Protection, aimed at ensuring that young Nigerians thrive in a competitive global environment.
“This collaboration is not just about programmes; it is about building the future of our young people. Together, we can ensure that Nigerian youth are empowered, innovative, and globally competitive,” Olawande said.
Chief Executive Officer of the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Matthias Leder, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth through vocational education and legal migration programmes.
He commended the Federal Government’s effort in advancing youth skill development and acknowledged the success of ongoing bilateral projects between Nigeria and Germany.
Dr. Leder revealed that 300 Nigerian youths have been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project, adding that they will be honoured in Lagos on November 12, 2025, after completing their A1 German language training.
He praised the German dual training model, where apprentices earn from the first day, and encouraged stronger cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand opportunities for young people and strengthen bilateral relations.
