By Oso Abidemi
The Federal Government has officially launched the 2025 entrance examination for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), into Federal Technical Colleges nationwide, with over 30,000 candidates participating.
The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), Dr. Mohammed Aminu Mohammed, made the announcement on Saturday while monitoring the exams at the Federal Technical College, Orozo, Abuja.
Dr. Mohammed described TVET as a transformative initiative aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with practical, industry-relevant skills to boost human capital development.
According to him, the entrance exam is more than a selection process, it’s a tool for identifying individual strengths and aligning students with trades such as tailoring, electrical installation, and solar maintenance.
“If you pass, we evaluate your score alongside the data already collected to determine where you best fit. This isn’t just about passing exams; it’s about placing the right candidates in the right trade paths,” he explained.
Highlighting the economic significance of the programme, the NABTEB boss said the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported labour and promote local technical capacity.
“No country can grow without skilled artisans and technicians. The days of relying solely on paper qualifications are fading. The real question now is: what can you do?” he said.
He lamented that many simple construction jobs in Nigeria; such as tiling and plaster of Paris (POP), installations are still being handled by foreign workers despite the availability of energetic Nigerian youths who, if properly trained, can do the work efficiently.
“The building industry is a goldmine. With the right training, our young people can reclaim these jobs and build sustainable livelihoods,” he added.
Dr. Mohammed emphasized that certification is central to the programme’s success. “Certification builds trust. Nobody wants to hire unverified technicians, especially for major national projects like the ongoing gas pipeline initiative.”
The TVET programme, he said, will offer training durations ranging from six months to one year, depending on the trade.
Graduates will be provided with starter packs and may be eligible for government-backed loans to start their businesses.
“This is a complete package; skills training, certification, startup support, and employment opportunities. It’s a powerful tool for job creation and youth empowerment,” he stressed.
On admissions, Mohammed assured that a selection committee composed of school principals, NABTEB officials, and representatives of the Federal Ministry of Education will oversee a transparent process.
He noted that results from the current examination are expected to be released within 21 days.
“We’re also looking ahead. By this time next year, we hope the entire process; registration, testing, and results will be fully digitised,” he added.
The flag-off marks a significant milestone in the government’s drive to strengthen technical education, improve youth employability, and promote economic self-reliance through vocational skills.
