The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has revealed that at least 250,000 young Nigerians have been enrolled in the Federal Government’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme nationwide.
The initiative, which was launched by the ministry with a target of enrolling one million beneficiaries, is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical and employable skills.
Alausa disclosed on Thursday during his induction as a member of the Epe Club at an event held in the Alausa area of Lagos State.
The ceremony, organised in honour of a prominent political figure in the Epe Division, Shakiru Akanni, attracted political stakeholders and traditional rulers from across the state.
Speaking as the chairman of the occasion, the minister said the enrolment milestone reflects the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to strengthening the education sector, noting that skill acquisition remains a critical driver of national development.
He said, “Skill is the present and the future. We have changed the interest of our young citizens in skill development, and that is why, within the last 14 months, we have put a robust technical and vocational education training programme in place, and we’ve seen millions of young Nigerians coming in".
“I am happy to report that we have the first squad of the one million target that we aim to train in the next two years. 250,000 are being trained now in a way that will equip them with practical skills, and when they are through, we will support them with a starter pack and low interest loan.”
Alausa also expressed appreciation to the Epe Club for inducting him as a member and praised the organisation for recognising Akanni, describing the gesture as one that would reinforce positive social values and inspire future leaders in nation building.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, said Nigeria has continued to make progress under the Tinubu administration, urging citizens to disregard negative narratives.
He encouraged young Nigerians to focus on the country’s positive prospects and take advantage of opportunities that could enhance their personal development.
Hamzat further advised young people to emulate the leadership qualities, political values and community service exemplified by the honouree.
Earlier, the President of the Epe Club, Olayemi Dada, said the club has consistently supported indigent students and donated equipment to health centres within the Epe Division.
He explained that the event was organised to celebrate individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the growth of the club and the wider Epe community while they are still alive.
According to Dada, Akanni was selected for the honour in recognition of his commitment to community development, leadership capacity and sacrifices toward the advancement of younger generations.
The event also featured a fundraising segment for the construction of a proposed ultra modern Epe Club building.
