By Isaac Olufemi Ojo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has concluded a 10-day intensive National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) training and empowerment scheme in Oyo State, equipping 700 youths with practical vocational capabilities, digital devices, and business starter kits.
The graduation ceremony, held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Kensington Adebutu Hall, University of Ibadan, marked the culmination of the exercise which commenced on September 28.
Managed by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE), the initiative forms a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to move five million Nigerians out of poverty over the next four years.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on TVEE, Dr. Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on TVEE, Dr. Abiola Arogundade while Speaking at the closing ceremony, emphasized that the Federal Government’s resolve to replace handouts with sustainable capacity building and economic self-reliance.
“What we want to do, and what the President wants to do, is to move as many people out of poverty as possible,” Dr. Arogundade stated. “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 said.
Dr. Arogundade while Detailing the intervention, disclosed that 30 participants received specialized instruction in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Graphics Design, 85 in Makeup Artistry, and 85 in Fashion Design, alongside 500 participants provided with digital devices to facilitate their entry into the expanding digital economy.
Beneficiaries were presented with practical enterprise tools, including laptops, makeup sets, sewing machines, and digital tablets.
“Don’t use it as a one-man solution or one-man empowerment. There’s a multiplier effect. Train your neighbours, train your community people, and also continue to impact and learn more.” she said .
the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja while recieveing the envoy lead by Dr. Arogundade, Prior to the ceremony commended the Federal Government’s grassroots focus, describing the NPRGS scheme as a transformative move against youth unemployment.
“It’s a very good initiative, and we are very proud of Arogundade,” Oba Ladoja remarked.
While expressing optimism about the long-term impact of the exercise. Olaleye Idowu, a 400-level International Relations student at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti who completed the AI and graphics track, commended the Federal Government for addressing the youth skills gap.
The closing ceremony attracted prominent political figures and stakeholders, including All Progressives Congress (APC) Oyo State governorship hopeful, Senator Alli Sharafadeen Abiodun, and his deputy, Hon. Michael Adesoji Adedeji; Senator representing Oyo Central, Sen. Yunus Abiodun Akintunde; Oyo State APC Women Leader and Tinubu Torch Bearers coordinator, Dr. Adekemi Felicia Opatunde; and Southwest Federal Constituency coordinator, Hon. Folake Olunloyo-Oshinowo.
Following its initial pilot phase in Abuja and the successful completion of the Oyo State exercise, the OSSAP-TVEE announced that the nationwide NPRGS rollout will proceed across other geopolitical zones, targeting 1,200 participants per phase with tailored, region-specific vocational instruction.
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