The Nigerian government has announced plans to empower at least seven million Nigerian youths through a dual vocational training and digital skills development programme.
Minister of Youth Development Comrade Ayodele Olawande disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Germany, at his office in Abuja.
Olawande explained that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills that promote self-reliance, innovation, and employability.
He said; “the government, through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), is deepening partnerships with German and Nigerian institutions to expand access to vocational and digital training opportunities, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for youth empowerment.”
“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 stated.
Olawande also highlighted plans to strengthen collaboration with institutions such as the Chambers Academy, the Nigerian Institute for Vocational Training and Corporate Development, and the German Chambers of Commerce, as well as relevant ministries and agencies, including those of Labour and Science, to broaden vocational and digital learning opportunities nationwide.
He said that the Ministry would soon launch a digital learning platform under the Nigerian Youth Academy, modelled after global platforms such as Coursera, to make skill acquisition more accessible to young Nigerians.
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He described the Ministry’s youth development strategy as a tripartite framework anchored on support, empowerment, and protection, designed to ensure that every young Nigerian can thrive in a globally competitive environment.
Olawande said; “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.”
In his remarks, Dr Matthias Leder, Chief Executive Officer of the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth through vocational training and legal migration initiatives.
He commended the Nigerian government’s efforts in advancing youth skills development and highlighted the success of ongoing bilateral programmes between Nigeria and Germany.
Dr Leder said that “300 Nigerian youths have been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project and will be honoured in Lagos on 12 November 2025, after completing their A1 German language level.”
He praised the German dual training model, where apprentices earn from the first day, and called for stronger cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand opportunities for young people and strengthen bilateral relations.