More than 3,000 young Nigerians are currently learning practical trades at the Federal Technical College, Orozo, Abuja, under the Federal Government’s World Bank-supported IDEAS (Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills) and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programmes, MSME Africa reports.
The goal is to cut youth unemployment by giving young people skills they can use to get a job, start a business and become self-reliant. And the good news for other young Nigerians: the national TVET programme is currently taking new applications.
What the Trainees in Abuja Are Learning
During a visit to the college, trainees were seen in hands-on sessions in workshops including:
- auto electrical and electronics
- automobile mechanics
- auto spray painting
- garment making
- leatherworks
- GSM phone repairs
- catering
- information and communication technology (ICT)
The college principal, Dr Stella Uhuegbu, said the institution focuses on practical training so participants can work independently when they finish.
About the IDEAS-TVET Programme
- introduced by the Federal Government in November 2025 with World Bank support
- targets 250,000 young Nigerians nationwide
- includes 3,000 beneficiaries in Abuja over a six-month period
- delivered through federal and state technical colleges and accredited training centres
Benefits of Joining TVET
- free training in a practical trade
- a monthly stipend during training (reported at ₦22,500–₦30,000 for the current cohort)
- a recognised certificate
- starter packs to help you begin work or a business after graduating
Full details are in our guide: FG TVET Initiative Cohort 3 (2026/2027): Free Vocational Training, Monthly Stipend and Starter Packs.
Eligibility
- Short-Term Certificate (6 months): a valid NIN and BVN — no school certificate needed
- Vocational Education and Innovation (1 year): a First School Leaving Certificate, a non-formal education certificate, or proof of skills learned through apprenticeship (Recognition of Prior Learning)
Trades on offer include electrical installation, solar PV, welding, plumbing, tiling, carpentry, auto mechanics, GSM repair, fashion design, beauty therapy, hospitality, digital media and agriculture.
How to Apply
- Make sure you have a valid NIN and BVN.
- Register on the official Federal Ministry of Education TVET portal.
- Choose your track (6-month or 1-year), your trade and a training centre near you.
- Apply early — no closing date has been published for the current cohort.
Beware of scams: TVET training is free. Never pay anyone to register you or “guarantee” a place.
