Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for greater collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders to unlock Nigeria’s full potential in skills development.
He emphasised that a united national strategy is crucial for transforming the country’s workforce.
Shettima stressed that Nigeria’s demographic advantage can only translate into real economic gains if the youth and workforce are equipped with critical, market-relevant skills.
“We know that isolated programmes, no matter how well-intentioned, cannot substitute for a unified national strategy. That is why this council’s work remains indispensable. There are challenges, but we can conquer them if we act with unity, urgency, and foresight,” he stated.
Meanwhile, during the NEC meeting he chaired yesterday, the council discussed strategies for aligning Nigeria’s skills agenda with President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point development priorities.
The council also expressed strong support for the forthcoming Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative, set to be launched on May 16, 2025.
The council emphasised the importance of improved coordination among relevant ministries and agencies, particularly in promoting digital skills among young Nigerians.
It reiterated its commitment to policy coherence, effective implementation, and the adaptation of strategies to evolving labour market demands.
READ ALSO: NEC endorses $90bn agribusiness, approves textile development board
In a major policy shift, the council approved the adoption of the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certification for training centres across ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), all 36 states, and the private sector.
It also acknowledged the pivotal role of private sector actors in driving skills development nationwide.
Ministers from Education, Youth Development, Communications and Digital Economy, Industry, Trade and Investment, Works, and Women Affairs were in attendance, alongside state government representatives, heads of key agencies, private sector leaders, and development partners.
