The Federal Government’s free skills training initiative offers eligible Nigerians tuition-free vocational training and a monthly stipend of ₦30,000. It is designed to equip participants with practical skills for employment and self-employment, through accredited centres nationwide across all 36 states and the FCT.
The Federal Ministry of Education coordinates the initiative, while the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) handles stipend payments. Training options include a six-month Short-Term Certificate (STC) pathway and a one-year Vocational Education and Innovation (VEI) pathway, depending on the selected trade.
Available skills include electrical installation, welding, solar installation, plumbing, automobile repairs, fashion design, hospitality and digital media production. Successful participants may receive recognised certification, while eligible graduates may benefit from starter packs under programme conditions.
The ₦30,000 monthly stipend is for enrolled trainees and is subject to requirements, including attendance verification. It is not paid simply for submitting an application.
There is an important update about the latest intake. Although the official portal is accessible and some reports describe Cohort III registration as open, a November 6 update from the programme’s team said recruitment for the new cohort had not officially started. Applicants should confirm the status on the government portal before submitting details.
Requirements
Applicants should prepare:
How to apply
Visit the official Federal Ministry of Education TVET portal at https://www.tvet.education.gov.ng/. Check whether Cohort III applications have officially opened. When registration is enabled, create an account, enter accurate details, choose the training pathway, trade and accredited centre, then follow the instructions to submit. Registration and tuition are free. Do not pay agents or anyone promising guaranteed admission or monthly payments.