By our Reporter
The Federal Government has inaugurated a Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee to oversee engineering and laboratory upgrades in Nigeria’s polytechnics, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening technical education and expanding hands-on training.
Inaugurating the committee in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, described the intervention as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s economic transformation. Under the second phase of the Skills-G programme, the Federal Government will replace obsolete equipment, introduce industry-grade engineering facilities, and modernise laboratory ecosystems in 37 polytechnics nationwide, funded by TETFund.
The programme will equip laboratories in priority areas including mechatronics, robotics, renewable energy, telecommunications, electronics, and automobile engineering. It will also promote dual certification pathways, enabling graduates to earn ND or HND qualifications alongside recognised National Skills Qualification certificates to improve employability.
The Committee, chaired by NBTE Executive Secretary, Professor Idris Muhammad Bugaje, will monitor implementation, ensure due process, maintain records, and recommend institutions for the third phase in 2026.
The Ministry reiterated that the initiative is part of broader reforms to close skills gaps and empower young Nigerians with industry-relevant expertise.
