Shettima calls for stronger public-private collaboration on skills development

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to fully harness Nigeria’s skills potential and drive sustainable development.

Speaking at the 5th meeting of the National Council on Skills in Abuja on Wednesday, the Vice President said Nigeria’s young and growing population can become a powerful economic asset—if adequately equipped with the right 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,” Shettima stated.

“There are challenges, but we can overcome them if we act with unity, urgency, and foresight.”

The Council, chaired by the Vice President, discussed strategies to advance Nigeria’s skills development agenda in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point plan. A key highlight of the meeting was the endorsement of the forthcoming Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative, scheduled for launch on May 16, 2025.

Emphasis was placed on aligning skills development with digital innovation and labour market demands, with a particular focus on empowering youth through digital training.

The Council also approved the adoption of the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certification across government training centres, states, and private institutions—a move expected to standardize skills acquisition and improve employability nationwide.

Ministers from key sectors—including Education, Youth Development, Communications and Digital Economy, Industry, Trade and Investment, Works, and Women Affairs—participated in the meeting, alongside representatives of state governments, private sector leaders, and development partners.