The Federal Government has inaugurated the Governing Board of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), signalling renewed efforts to strengthen technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Nigeria.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa said the reform is part of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is aimed at producing skilled workers capable of supporting industrialisation, entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Alausa said Nigeria must move beyond an education system focused mainly on paper qualifications to one that equips graduates with practical, industry-relevant skills. He stressed that TVET should no longer be viewed as an alternative to university education but as a strategic national priority.
The minister said a strong industrial economy requires technicians, technologists, artisans, fabricators, automation specialists, machine operators and other skilled professionals. He therefore charged the new board to provide strategic leadership, policy direction and effective oversight.
Alausa also directed the board to accelerate the Recognition of Prior Learning framework, working with the Industrial Training Fund and other stakeholders to formally certify the skills of experienced artisans under the National Skills Qualification Framework.
The new board chairman, Prof. Babatunde Salako, pledged support for the government’s reforms and identified changing the perception of technical education as a major priority. He said public enlightenment would be necessary to encourage more Nigerians to see TVET as a viable route to employment and entrepreneurship.
NBTE Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Bugaje described the inauguration as significant because the governing board is being constituted after more than five years. He said the development marks a new phase for technical education in Nigeria.
The Federal Government’s renewed focus on TVET is ultimately aimed at bridging the gap between education and industry, improving employability, supporting entrepreneurship and providing the skilled workforce needed for Nigeria’s industrial development.
