The Federal Government has opened applications for the second cohort of its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, with a monthly stipend of N22,500 for selected trainees.
Applications began on Monday, April 13, 2026, through the official TVET portal. Officials say the exercise targets young Nigerians seeking practical skills for work and for starting small businesses.
The programme runs across accredited centres in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, offering two training paths. One lasts six months under the Short-Term Certificate track and the other runs for one year under the Vocational Education and Innovation track.
Training covers more than 25 trades. These include electrical installation, welding, plumbing, ICT, automotive repair, fashion design, cosmetology, agriculture, solar installation, creative media, and hospitality services.
Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the programme focuses on long-term economic outcomes.
“In strengthening this programme, the Federal Government is investing in the productive capacity of our youth. By providing practical training and recognised certification, we are creating pathways for self-employment, innovation, and long-term economic growth,” Dr Alausa stated.
The ministry says the initiative will also expand training in the creative and cultural sectors. It is working with the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism to support that goal.
Each trainee will receive support throughout the programme. The structure includes free tuition, monthly stipends, and certification after completion.
“Participants will receive a monthly stipend of N22,500 throughout the duration of their training and will be awarded a nationally recognised certification upon successful completion.
“Training will cover a wide range of high-demand sectors, including construction, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), automotive technology, creative media, agriculture, fashion and garment production, cosmetology, tourism and hospitality, catering services, and leather works, among others,” the statement partly reads.
Officials also confirmed startup grants and access to low-interest loans for graduates. The aim focuses on helping trainees move straight into work or self-employment.
The ministry requires applicants to provide a National Identification Number and Bank Verification Number during registration. It also says attendance will go through biometric checks. Only trainees who meet attendance rules will receive stipends.
How to Apply
Applications for TVET second cohort go through the website. The ministry has asked candidates to complete registration early and select approved training centres.
The programme sits within a national skills plan, aligning with efforts to reduce unemployment and expand vocational training across Nigeria.
In December 2025, the government released N4.7 billion as the first tranche of payments to trainees and accredited centres under the TVET scheme. The Education Minister announced the release through a statement shared on X.
The rollout started earlier in May last year. Since then, the government has pushed to expand participation across states.
Interest in the programme has grown. Within one week of the portal opening in 2025, officials recorded more than 90,000 applications.
Entrance examination figures also rose. Participation moved from 7,547 candidates in 2024 to 30,000 in 2025. That was an increase of nearly 300%.
The ministry also introduced an artisan-led mentorship model and now operates across 38 upgraded technical colleges. Experienced craftsmen guide trainees directly on practical tasks.
Accreditation regulations for training centres are strict. Centres must register with the Corporate Affairs Commission and must also adopt an NSQ-based curriculum and meet staffing and facility standards.
Officials still describe TVET as an important part of Nigeria’s skills drive. The programme links formal training with industry needs, seeking to close gaps between education and employment.
More updates are expected as the second cohort begins registration and screening across the country.
