The Managing Director of the Fund, Akintunde Sawyerr, revealed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja. He explained that the extension of the scheme aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to strengthen education and national productivity through a mix of academic and technical competencies.
Sawyerr noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to inclusive human capital development that transcends conventional university pathways.
According to him, no nation can thrive solely on theoretical knowledge without harnessing practical skills.
“It is very important to have people who can use their hands, energy, strength, and skills to translate clever ideas into action. That is how nations develop,” he stated.
Since inception, NELFUND has focused on providing financial assistance to students in tertiary institutions. However, Sawyerr said the next phase involves extending access to Nigerians pursuing technical and vocational training.
He stressed that Nigeria’s future requires a balanced workforce capable of both designing and implementing solutions.
“At NELFUND, we have a mandate to also support vocational skills. We have not started yet, but the Tinubu administration has ensured there is full coverage across the skills ecosystem,” he said.
He added that various ministries — including Youth Development, Education, and Digital Economy — are currently involved in different aspects of vocational and IT skill development.
Sawyerr emphasised that Nigeria has entered a crucial phase of “design, build, and operate,” where practical competence will be essential to national progress.
