Tinubu unveils plan for Nigeria’s first National Industrial Manpower Development Policy
By Kunle Sanni –
President Bola Tinubu has announced plans to introduce Nigeria’s first National Industrial Manpower Development Policy to bridge the gap between educational output and industry needs, while preparing the workforce for the demands of a changing global economy.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 National Industrial Manpower Summit in Abuja, Tinubu—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—stressed that Nigeria’s greatest asset lies in its people. He warned that without urgent investment in human capital, the country risks lagging behind amid disruptive technological changes.
“For a nation with a median age of about seventeen, Nigeria is incredibly young. This youthfulness is a gift, but also a responsibility,” he said. “We must align education and training with industry demands to reverse the mismatch between what institutions produce and what the economy requires.”
The President said the summit would produce actionable recommendations to guide the new policy, promising that his administration would review and implement viable proposals without delay. He also called for an industrial skills database, sector-specific manpower roadmaps, and greater recognition for vocational training.
Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, described the initiative as “a historic moment” in Nigeria’s economic journey, while Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, said manpower development is key to attracting investment and driving export-led growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, urged for a unified approach to skills development. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Mr Adamson Ayinde Oluwatoyin, called manpower development “the bridge between potential and productivity.”
Director General of the Industrial Training Fund, Dr Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin, praised the administration’s commitment, saying the summit offers a platform for setting national skills targets and mobilising resources cohesively.
The summit, themed “Manpower Development: The Bridge Between Potential and Productivity”, brought together government officials, industry leaders, academia, and international partners to chart a new course for Nigeria’s workforce and industrial growth.
