By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government has commenced the Renewed Hope Vocational and Skills Training Programme across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to empower over 18,000 Nigerians with practical vocational skills. The programme, which officially began after its flag-off on July 13, 2026, at the Government Science Technical College (GSTC), Area 3, Garki, Abuja, is being implemented through the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). The initiative aims to reduce unemployment, promote entrepreneurship, and improve livelihoods by providing free vocational training and starter packs through 230 training centres nationwide.
FG Deploys 230 Training Centres Nationwide
During an inspection visit to the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), Kubwa, one of the designated training centres, the National Programme Manager of N-POWER, Dr. Nsikak Amos Okon, said the government would train more than 18,000 Nigerians.
He explained that the programme maximizes existing vocational facilities across the country to create jobs and boost economic opportunities.
Dr. Okon described the initiative as a clear demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to reducing unemployment and expanding access to sustainable livelihoods.
“This programme reflects the unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackling unemployment, reducing poverty, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities through sustainable skills development,” he said.
Training Holds Simultaneously Across Nigeria
Dr. Okon confirmed that training is taking place simultaneously in all states of the federation and the FCT.
He urged beneficiaries to look beyond the training allowance and focus on the long-term benefits of acquiring practical skills.
He also advised participants not to sell the starter packs they would receive after completing the programme.
According to him, the equipment will help beneficiaries establish businesses and become financially independent.
“The Federal Government wants to improve your economic power. Therefore, use the starter packs for their intended purpose,” he added.
Government Assures Transparent Payment Process
Furthermore, Dr. Okon assured beneficiaries that the government would pay training allowances directly into their bank accounts.
He emphasized that the payment process would remain transparent throughout the programme.
Participants Receive Training in 14 High-Demand Skills
The Renewed Hope Vocational and Skills Training Programme covers 14 vocational trades designed to meet labour market demands.
These include:
- Automobile Technology
- Agricultural Technology
- Baking and Confectionery
- Carpentry
- Catering Services
- Electrical Installation
- Housekeeping
- Jewellery and Bead Making
- Masonry
- Plumbing
- Welding and Fabrication
- Fashion Design and Sewing
- Grinding Machine Operations
- Vulcanizing and Tyre Services
NSIPA Highlights Economic Importance of Skills Acquisition
Meanwhile, the Assistant Director of N-POWER, Dr. Madu Uba, represented the National Programme Manager during a visit to the Voice of the Girl Child and Vulnerable People Foundation in Nyanya, Abuja.
He encouraged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity, stressing that vocational skills have become essential for economic survival.
According to him, the programme offers a practical pathway to economic empowerment rather than serving as another government training exercise.
Beneficiaries Praise Tinubu, NSIPA
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism about its impact.
Mrs. Comfort Ahua, who is undergoing training at PSIN Kubwa, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching the programme.
She said the initiative would improve participants’ economic well-being and pledged to apply the skills effectively.
Similarly, Mrs. Cecilia Ochayan Abba, a beneficiary at the Voice of the Girl Child and Vulnerable People Foundation in Nyanya, commended NSIPA for the programme.
She appealed to the Federal Government to introduce another phase so that more Nigerians could benefit.
