The Federal Government has officially unveiled the Ladela Educational Institute, a tuition-free technical and vocational training centre accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), to equip Nigerian youths with practical, employable skills.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, the Executive Director of the institute, Angela Ajala, described the centre as a Technical Vocational Educational Training (TVET) institution established to “build a skilled, self-reliant and prosperous workforce.”
Ajala emphasised the life-changing potential of the initiative, particularly for young Nigerians aged 18 to 35 without formal education.
“Today marks a defining moment, not just for us as an institution, but for every young person with a dream and determination to build something with their hands.
We are proud to be building Nigeria one skilled hand at a time,” she said.
“The programmes here will be delivered by industry professionals to ensure that graduates leave not just with technical skills, but with industry connections, confidence and real-world competence,” she added.
The institute will run five training programmes over a six-month period in the following areas:Garment Making, Hospitality and Catering, Creative Digital Skills, Social Media Management, Solar Installation and Maintenance
Ajala advised prospective applicants to register through the official NBTE portal. Eligibility is restricted to youths between the ages of 18 and 35 who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
Also speaking at the event, Pauline Ajibili, Deputy Director at the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), said that graduates of the programme would earn nationally recognised certifications, which would enhance their employability both locally and internationally.
She noted that trainees will receive a monthly stipend of ₦22,500 to support transportation costs and, upon completion, a starter pack tailored to their area of specialisation to help launch their professional or entrepreneurial journey.
“This is a national initiative and it has already begun, with the registration portal currently open and placements underway.
Once registration closes, the NBTE will allocate trainees to various centres across the country based on location and capacity,” Ajibili said.
She encouraged young Nigerians to embrace the opportunity, stating: “There is no reason for anybody not to be skilled, not to be working, and not to be in business.”