The Federal Government has pledged stronger support for technical and vocational education, with a renewed focus on prioritizing skills over paper qualifications.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Fnipr, made this commitment during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Mohammed Bugaje, and executives of the Creative Media Sector Skills Council led by its Chairperson, Hajiya Fatima Haliru, in Abuja.
The Minister described the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) as a groundbreaking step for professionals who gained expertise through hands-on experience but lacked formal certification.
“The message is clear: skills, not just degrees, will define the future of our workforce. Many of our young people are already talented in areas like photography, cinematography, and digital services. What this framework does is give them the recognition they deserve, opening pathways for higher training, employment, and entrepreneurship,” Idris said.
He further pledged close collaboration with the NBTE and the Council to standardize and certify skills within the creative sector, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Idris assured that the Ministry of Information will work with stakeholders across broadcast, advertising, and information sectors to raise professional standards, unlock economic opportunities, and empower Nigerian youth.
In response, Prof. Bugaje and Hajiya Haliru commended the Ministry for championing reforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Prof. Bugaje highlighted that the Creative Media Sector Skills Council, established just seven months ago as the 20th in Nigeria, has already developed 24 new qualifications in fields such as audio production, content creation, and photography.
He stressed the significance of the RPL scheme in certifying informally trained professionals such as apprentices in broadcasting and media, thereby granting them nationally recognized NSQ certificates. Hajiya Haliru noted that with over 70% private sector participation, the Council is aligning with global best practices to ensure industry-led skill development.
The event was attended by top media executives and stakeholders, including Mr. Chinasa Ogbodo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; Malam Abdulhameed Dembos, DG of NTA; Dr. Mohammed Bulama, DG of FRCN; Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, DG of VON; Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, DG of ARCON; Malam Ali M. Ali, MD of NAN; and Prince Emeka Kalu, President of RATTAWU.
📩 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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