The Federal Government has trained more than 120 artisans in high-demand vocational trades and provided them with work tools and starter kits to support business growth and self-employment.

The initiative, implemented by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with EGO Foundation and supported by Access Corporation, forms part of efforts to promote vocational education, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment across the country.

Participants received intensive practical training in garment making and fashion design, beauty and cosmetology, solar installation and maintenance, hospitality management, catering and food services, as well as entrepreneurship and business management.

Speaking on the programme, Executive Director of EGO Foundation, Toluwase Olaniyan, said the initiative was designed to improve employability and equip artisans and aspiring entrepreneurs with the technical expertise and business skills needed to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to national development.

He noted that beyond technical training, beneficiaries were also exposed to entrepreneurial development and business management strategies aimed at helping them strengthen existing enterprises or establish new ventures.

To ensure participants could immediately apply their newly acquired skills, Access Corporation sponsored the distribution of essential work tools and starter kits. The support is expected to enhance productivity, promote business expansion and create sustainable sources of income for beneficiaries.

Olaniyan commended the Federal Ministry of Education and Access Corporation for their commitment to empowering Nigerians through practical skills development, describing the programme as a model for tackling unemployment and poverty through strategic collaboration.

According to him, the initiative demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when government, private sector organisations and development partners work together to drive economic inclusion and sustainable development.

He urged beneficiaries to build on the knowledge gained from the training, utilise the tools provided effectively and become ambassadors of excellence and entrepreneurship within their communities.

Stakeholders involved in the programme emphasised the importance of practical skills acquisition in addressing unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship, while beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the opportunity, noting that the training and support would significantly improve their economic prospects.

The collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education, EGO Foundation and Access Corporation highlights the growing role of public-private partnerships in advancing youth empowerment, skills development and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.