The Federal Government has announced plans to formally integrate Nigeria’s informal training hubs, including the Panteka centres in Kaduna, Jos and other cities, into the Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
The initiative forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed push to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and provide young Nigerians with market-ready skills.
The decision was disclosed on Friday during a meeting between the Minister of Education and the National Association of Pantekas in Abuja.
Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Bugaje, confirmed that the Kaduna Panteka centre had already been registered under the NSQF with support from Governor Uba Sani. He explained that more than 38,000 apprentices are currently undergoing training there exceeding the student population of Kaduna Polytechnic demonstrating its significant role in skills development and crime reduction.
Bugaje highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the centre, including roads, ICT hubs, a clinic, fire service, and water systems. He stressed that informal hubs like Kaduna’s Panteka, Lagos’ Computer Village, and Aba’s Ariaria Market were economic assets that contribute to job creation, local manufacturing, and exports.
“These hubs are treasures of our economy. With proper recognition and support, they can reduce unemployment, curb insecurity, and drive industrial growth,” he said.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, pledged government support through a results-based funding model. Under the plan, accredited training centres will receive N45,000 per student in three instalments to ensure accountability, while graduates will be provided with starter packs to help them begin businesses or join the workforce.
Alausa added that the government will subsidise accreditation, offer stipends, and provide transport support to ensure all students regardless of financial background can access training opportunities.
“The aim is not just to train young people but to create clear pathways to employment and revive Nigeria’s tradition of technical expertise,” he said.
Panteka National President, Nasiru Adamu, welcomed the development, noting the centres’ impact on employment and poverty reduction. He urged the government to ensure NSQF certificates from Panteka hubs are fully recognised and for curricula to be updated in line with training offered at informal centres.