Artisans, vocational trainees, and education stakeholders have welcomed the federal government’s zero-interest loan initiative aimed at supporting skills acquisition across Nigeria.
The move, driven by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), is seen as a major step toward empowering youth, boosting self-reliance, and revitalising the vocational sector.
LEADERSHIP reports that NELFUND is set to introduce the Vocational Skills Loan Initiative, a programme designed to support Nigerians seeking practical skills training in various trades and technical fields.
This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, fostering entrepreneurship and skill development across the country.
The loan covers comprehensive training costs, including tuition fees, monthly stipends for living expenses, and free tools upon completion of training. Transportation expenses to and from training centers are also covered.
The initiative targets practical and vocational skills such as fashion designing, carpentry, technical trades, and other certified vocational programme and is scheduled to commence in Enugu State between late June and mid-July 2025.
Enugu was selected due to its existing infrastructure and readiness to host training centers. While Enugu will serve as the launch point, there are plans to expand to other states.
Artisans interviewed expressed optimism, saying that when it commence, it will help young artisans to develop skills.
An Abuja-based fashion designer Martha Venda described the initiative as a blessing, “With this support, beginners can upgrade their tools, expand their shops, and train more apprentices. Artisans have long been the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. With NELFUND now including us, we have a real shot at building sustainable livelihoods and creating jobs for others.”
Also speaking, Theresa Moji, an independent tailor, added, “This loan scheme is the push many of us needed. It shows that the government recognises the value of artisans. I’m ready to take my craft to the next level.”
She also noted that many of her friends are ready to key into the opportunity once the centers become accessible to them.
Speaking on the development recently, NELFUND Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, said the loan support is intended to help individuals access technical education at various skill centers. He confirmed that Enugu is among the initial states for rollout.
“We are working on it now and will be engaging with the executive governor and his team. The president has instructed us to prioritize areas with readiness for swift implementation.
“I think within the next six to eight weeks, you’ll see us kick something off.”
During a tour of the Enugu Garments and Fashion Hub, NELFUND’s Executive Director of Operations, Mr. Iyal Mustapha, emphasised Enugu’s preparedness.
“We’ve seen vocational facilities in over 10 states, but Enugu ranks among the best. With facilities like technical colleges and fashion design centers, the state is ready,” he said.
Mustapha explained that similar to its student loan programme, NELFUND would open its portal to applicants interested in vocational training. The loans would cover tuition, transportation, upkeep, and provide tools after training.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Digital Economy and MSMEs, Arinze Chilo-Offiah, affirmed the state government’s commitment to youth employability. “Our facilities, such as the Fashion and Garment Hub and the upgraded Government Technical College (GTC), show we’re ready to key into NELFUND’s initiative.”
He added, “We have about 150 industrial sewing machines and can accommodate over 300 people at once. We’re targeting the Garment Hub to eventually produce all state uniforms.”
