FG establishes 270 vocational centres to boost skills development nationwide

The Federal Government has rolled out 270 vocational training centres across Nigeria as part of its strategy to promote entrepreneurship and close skill gaps among the youth.

This was revealed on Thursday in Abuja by the Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical) of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mr. Rasaq Akinyemi, during a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives Committee on Alternative Education.

The session reviewed nine proposed bills, including those seeking to establish a National Institute for Technical and Vocational Education in Kalgo, Kebbi State, as well as Federal Colleges of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition in Bunza (Kebbi) and Maiduguri (Borno).

Akinyemi commended the legislative push to reduce youth unemployment and foster innovation, but cautioned against the uncoordinated proliferation of new institutions. He suggested that consolidating and enhancing existing frameworks might offer a more sustainable and cost-efficient route.

“Establishing and maintaining federal institutions demands significant capital and recurrent expenditure,” he said, highlighting funding challenges amid tight budgetary conditions. He also underscored the importance of defining clear governance models to ensure accountability and efficiency.

UBEC, he said, remains committed to collaborating with lawmakers and stakeholders to advance vocational education in the country. “It is crucial to delineate the responsibilities of federal agencies, state and local governments, and the institutions themselves to avoid overlaps and inefficiencies,” Akinyemi added.

Representatives from constituencies targeted for the proposed institutions expressed strong backing for the legislative initiative, citing its potential to stimulate local economies, enhance education access, and empower communities.

Also speaking at the hearing, Hauwa Alkali from the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education voiced support for the proposed centres, describing them as crucial to addressing education inequality and social mobility.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Hon. Alexander Mascot emphasized that vocational and entrepreneurial training is pivotal to Nigeria’s future.

“In today’s fast-changing global economy, equipping our youth with practical skills is essential,” he stated. “These centres reflect a serious commitment to national development and to unlocking the potential of our youthful population.”

The Speaker affirmed the House’s dedication to enacting laws that support alternative education models capable of driving growth, generating employment, and reducing poverty.