By Ayo Kehinde
The Federal Government has announced key advancements in youth development and education, confirming the disbursement of over N116 billion in student loans and the registration of nearly two million Nigerians for the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) digital skills programme.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the disclosure on Monday at the APC North-West Youth Rally in Dutse, Jigawa State. The rally, which drew thousands of young people, was held to mark two years of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Idris described the youth as central to Nigeria’s growth, stressing that government programmes are being designed to equip them with skills and opportunities.
“From cabinet appointments to digital innovation and education reforms, young Nigerians are not just part of the story—they are driving it,” he said.
He noted that through the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scheme, one million Nigerians have been certified across 25 trade areas, with at least a quarter already placed in training and production centres nationwide.
The Minister also highlighted the ongoing Energizing Education Programme implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), which is providing uninterrupted electricity to tertiary institutions.
“Universities like Bayero University, Kano, and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, now have reliable power to support learning, research and innovation,” he said.
On economic reforms, Idris stated that the proposed Nigeria Tax Act will exempt businesses earning N100 million or less annually from company income tax and capital gains tax—an effort he described as easing the burden on young entrepreneurs and small businesses.
“We are creating an economy where small businesses can grow and thrive without being strangled by taxation,” he explained.
He urged youths to channel their energy toward innovation and national development and to avoid amplifying misinformation and divisive content online.
“Let’s use our voices and platforms to build, not destroy,” Idris appealed.
The event was attended by Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, APC National Youth Leader Dr. Dayo Israel, and other leaders from across the region.
The 3MTT programme, implemented in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is aimed at developing a domestic technology workforce capable of powering Nigeria’s digital economy and positioning the country as a global talent hub.
