Skills, Not Degrees, Will Shape Nigeria’s Workforce – Minister

Skills, Not Degrees, Will Shape Nigeria’s Workforce – Minister

 

 

 

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting skills-based education, emphasizing that practical expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s future workforce.

 

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known yesterday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Mohammed Bugaje, alongside executives of the Creative Media Sector Skills Council, led by Chairperson Hajiya Fatima Haliru.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Idris stressed the importance of prioritizing skills over formal academic qualifications. He described the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) as transformative for professionals who have acquired expertise through experience but lack formal certification.

 

“The message is clear: skills, not just degrees, will define the future of our workforce. Many young Nigerians are already excelling in areas such as photography, cinematography, and digital services. This framework ensures they receive recognition, opening doors to higher training, employment, and entrepreneurship,” Idris said.

 

The minister assured that his ministry would collaborate closely with the NBTE and the Creative Media Sector Skills Council to standardize skill certification across the creative industry, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He also promised to work with stakeholders in broadcasting, advertising, and information sectors to enhance professional standards and create economic opportunities for young Nigerians.

 

In response, Professor Bugaje and Hajiya Fatima commended the Ministry for advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda. Bugaje revealed that since its establishment seven months ago as Nigeria’s 20th sectoral council, the Creative Media Sector Skills Council has developed 24 new qualifications in audio production, content creation, and photography.

 

He highlighted the RPL scheme’s significance in certifying informally trained professionals, including apprentices in media and broadcasting, through nationally recognized NSQ certificates.

 

“The council boasts over 70 percent private sector participation and is working to ensure industry-led skill development aligns with global best practices,” Hajiya Fatima said.

 

The event was also attended by top officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mr. Chinasa Ogbodo; Director Generals of NTA, FRCN, and VON; Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali M. Ali; and the President of RATTAWU, Prince Emeka Kalu.