The federal government has unveiled a scheme to provide a monthly grant of N45,000 to pupils attending technical institutions across the country.
The Head of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)
Prof Idris Bugaje
, announced this during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Bugaje states that the updated policy intends to accelerate the growth of the TVET sector and increase enrollments below the tertiary level.
Moreover, he mentioned that the government would cover tuition fees for teachers and provide payment to industry-based mentors (“masterclass” instructors) when students undertake industrial placements. Additionally, they will fund the costs associated with obtaining skills certifications.
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“Through this initiative, young individuals will be more inclined to attend a technical college, obtain skill certifications, secure local employment, and potentially find job opportunities outside Nigeria as well,” Bugaje stated.
This approach is reshaping the entire sector. At present, we are witnessing what could be described as either a revival or a renewal of TVET.
Throughout the colonial era and in the initial phase of our independence, TVET garnered significant focus. However, starting from the 1980s, the situation has progressively deteriorated.
That’s why the number of technical colleges has decreased to 129 currently, whereas there are approximately 15,000 senior secondary schools in Nigeria.
Tinubu allots N120 billion grant for TVET
The head of NBTE revealed that
President Bola Tinubu
Has allocated a sum of ₦120 billion for a new TVET program aimed at supporting students, with plans to distribute these funds via the Nigerian Educational Development Fund (NELDevF).
“The N45,000 is not a loan; it is a grant. The students benefiting from this will not have to repay. Our aim is to motivate more individuals to enroll in technical education,” he stated firmly.
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Bugaje mentioned that, to guarantee the program’s longevity and growth, the Minister of Education,
Dr Tunji Alausa
is spearheading initiatives for a legislative proposal to create a National Skills Fund within a newly established Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
As per his statement, the bill is anticipated to be submitted to the national assembly shortly.
