In a significant move to combat youth unemployment, the federal government has successfully concluded a 10-day training program in Oyo State, graduating 700 young Nigerians equipped with vital vocational and digital skills. The ceremony took place on October 9, 2026, at the Kensington Adebutu Hall, University of Ibadan, marking a key initiative under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS).

The training, which commenced on September 28, was organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE). This initiative is part of President Bola Tinubu's broader strategy aimed at lifting five million Nigerians out of poverty over the next four years.

Beneficiaries of the program received training in various fields, including Artificial Intelligence, Makeup Artistry, and Fashion Design. Specifically, 30 participants focused on AI and Graphic Design, while 85 each were trained in Makeup Artistry and Fashion Design. The remaining 500 participants were provided with digital devices to facilitate their entry into the digital economy. Tools distributed during the ceremony included laptops, sewing machines, makeup kits, and digital tablets.

Dr. Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on TVEE, emphasized the government's commitment to fostering economic self-reliance among the youth. "Mr. President believes that our young people do not simply need assistance. They need opportunity. They need skills. They need the tools to compete and build sustainable livelihoods. And that is what today represents," she stated. She encouraged the graduates to extend their knowledge and skills to their communities, highlighting the importance of a multiplier effect.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, welcomed the initiative, commending its grassroots approach. During a visit from Dr. Arogundade, the monarch praised the program and called on others to emulate the efforts made to empower the youth. He expressed pride in the initiative, stating, "It's a very good initiative, and we are very proud of Arogundade."

Keynote speaker Mrs. Oluronke Shonubi linked the training in AI to global economic shifts, noting significant investments in the sector by countries like the United States and China. One of the beneficiaries, Olaleye Idowu, a student at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, shared his aspirations, stating, "In five years, I expect to become a professional AI prompt engineer, and I pledge to train and employ others as I develop my career."

The event also saw the attendance of notable political figures, including Senator Alli Sharafadeen Abiodun and Senator Yunus Abiodun Akintunde, who expressed support for the initiative. Following the Oyo phase, OSSAP-TVEE plans to extend the NPRGS program across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, aiming to train 1,200 participants in each phase with tailored vocational content to meet regional needs.

This training program represents a crucial step in addressing the rising unemployment rates among Nigerian youths and equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.