In a bold legislative move aimed at tackling Nigeria’s high youth unemployment rate and transforming its education system, the House of Representatives has commenced deliberations on a bill to establish vocational and skills acquisition centres in each of the nation’s 774 local government areas.
Leading the public hearing on the bill, Chairman of the House Committee on Alternative Education, Hon. Ibrahim Almustapha, described the proposal as a “national imperative.” He stressed the urgent need to provide Nigerian youth with practical, income-generating skills in response to evolving technological and economic demands.
“In today’s fast-changing world, driven by technology and shifting job markets, we must empower our young people with relevant skills,” Almustapha said. “These centres are not merely a policy initiative—they are an investment in our nation’s future.”
The hearing, held at the National Assembly, brought together lawmakers, education experts, and other stakeholders. Discussions covered nine related bills advocating for the creation of vocational and entrepreneurial institutions in various states, including Abia, Kebbi, Jigawa, Borno, and Plateau. These centres aim to serve Nigerians who lack access to formal education.
Almustapha emphasized that the centres would close the widening skills gap, reduce dependence on white-collar jobs, and establish alternative education as a catalyst for economic transformation.
“Our objective goes beyond education reform—it’s about building institutions that contribute to national growth through well-crafted legislation,” he said.
He commended House Speaker Hon. Abbas Tajudeen for pioneering the Committee on Alternative Education, the first of its kind in Nigeria’s legislative history. Represented by Hon. Alexander Mascot, the Speaker reaffirmed the House’s commitment to youth empowerment through non-formal education.
“Vocational training and entrepreneurial development are not optional—they are foundational to national progress,” Abbas stated. “Nigeria’s youth have the energy and potential; what they need are the tools and platforms to become self-reliant.”
Despite past government efforts, Abbas acknowledged that many existing vocational centres remain underfunded and underutilised. Hon. Ikwechegh, representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency, echoed this concern, urging the government to prioritise revitalising existing facilities.
“The initiative is commendable,” Ikwechegh noted. “But let’s also ensure that the vocational centres we already have are properly funded and functional.”
Cautioning against a generic rollout, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, advised a tailored approach that considers the unique needs of each local government area.
“We must customise this intervention to fit specific regional needs,” he urged. “One size does not fit all.”
Hon. Olatunji Akinosi praised the bill, calling it “one of the most critical initiatives of the 10th Assembly.” He advocated a shift away from overemphasis on academic certificates to a focus on practical skills.
“For too long, we’ve idolised paper qualifications,” Akinosi said. “Nations we admire—Germany, China, and the U.S.—prioritise skills and competence. Nigeria must do the same if we’re serious about progress.”
Lawmakers expressed optimism that the legislation would become a key pillar in Nigeria’s drive toward industrialisation and sustainable economic development. Representatives from the private sector, academia, civil society, and development agencies also attended the session and pledged support.
Almustapha closed the hearing with a rallying call for collective action. “The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of our youth,” he declared. “It’s our collective duty to equip them with the skills and opportunities they need. Through empowerment and training, we can build a stronger, more prosperous nation.”
