The Federal Government has approved the release of ₦120 billion to the Federal Ministry of Education to drive its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, during the commissioning of the Community and Education Centre in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking through the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Ikot Abasi, Prof. Leo Daniel, the Minister revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the approval to boost access to technical, vocational, and digital education across the country.
As part of the initiative, the Ministry plans to roll out incentives aimed at attracting young Nigerians, including monthly stipends, starter packs, and take-off grants.
“In the next two years, we aim to empower no fewer than 650,000 Nigerian youths with the skills required to meet modern industrial and labour demands,” she said.
She described the newly commissioned centre as a hub for skills acquisition, digital literacy, adult education, and youth empowerment, aligning with the Ministry’s broader goal of expanding access to quality education and bridging the digital divide.
“This centre is more than just a structure. It stands as a beacon of hope, a platform for learning, and a foundation for the dreams of generations yet unborn. I urge the people of Ikot Abasi and the wider Akwa Ibom community to take full advantage of these opportunities.”
Prof. Suwaiba acknowledged the challenges facing the education sector, especially in rural areas, ranging from poor infrastructure to low school enrolment—particularly for the girl-child. She, however, emphasized the government’s determination to overcome these setbacks through strong partnerships with state governments, local communities, and development partners.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Prof. Simon Akpama, praised President Tinubu for prioritizing youth and adult literacy in Nigeria.
He commended the Ministers of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa and Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, for their visionary leadership and for creating an enabling environment for the establishment of the community learning centre.
