- The Federal Government's TVET programme is paying Nigerians a monthly stipend just to learn a skill
- Beyond the stipend, the programme throws in free certification and startup support, making it a launchpad for a real trade business
- Here is a detailed guide on the application process for interested applicants
Imagine learning a skill that people pay for... and still getting money while you're learning.
That's exactly why the TVET stipend programme is becoming one of Nigeria's hottest hustle conversations.
But before you rush to apply, there are a few things you should know that could make the difference between simply attending training and building an income that lasts long after the programme ends.
What is TVET?
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is a Federal Ministry of Education initiative designed to get young Nigerians skilled up in trades like automotive, tailoring, welding, ICT, construction, and more.
It's not new-new, but the 2026 rollout is what's got people talking. Here's why: it's tuition-free, it comes with a monthly stipend, and it also offers startup support after you complete training.
So it's skill, stipend, and (potentially) capital. That's a whole hustle pipeline in one program.
The stipend
One reason many Nigerians never learn a trade is simply because they can't afford to stop earning while they're training.
The TVET stipend is designed to reduce that pressure by giving eligible participants financial support of N22,500 monthly throughout the training period. It may not make anyone rich overnight.
But it can help with transportation, feeding, internet, or buying small training materials while you build a valuable skill.
There's also a separate track for trainers who already have skills and want to teach others, with a reportedly higher stipend per trainee (N45,000 per student)
Who can apply?
The TVET initiative offers two flexible training options to suit your background and goals:
1. Short-Term Certificate (STC) Programme
This is ideal for first-time trainees, school leavers, or individuals with no formal education background and it lasts for 6 months. This track is designed for individuals ready to learn a practical skill and enter the workforce quickly
Entry requirements:
- Valid National Identification Number (NIN)
- Valid Bank Verification Number (BVN)
- No prior educational qualification required.
2. Vocational Education & Innovation (VEI) Programme
Duration: 1 year
The programme is for individuals with some education or informal training experience, looking to deepen and formalise their skills. The programme’s duration is 1 year.
Entry requirements (any of the following):
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): proof of skills acquired informally or through apprenticeship
- First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC)
- Any form of non-formal education certificate (e.g., training from NGOs, religious institutions, nomadic education or community programs)
Training happens across technical colleges and vocational centers in different states
That last point matters. If your state doesn't have a nearby center, this whole hustle could mean relocating temporarily, and that's a cost calculation you need to make before you get excited about "free money."
Application process
The process reportedly runs through an official government portal, and it goes something like:
1. Visit the portal and create an account.
2. Go through NIN verification
3. Verify your phone number via SMS code
4. Select your preferred programme track
5. Fill in your details and upload supporting documents
6. Select your preferred training center and trade
7. Submit and wait for confirmation
What makes it a legit hustle
You're earning while learning, not spending savings on a skill center
The certificate is reportedly recognised, which matters for job or contract applications later
Startup support after completion could be your seed capital for an actual business
If you've been sitting on "I want to learn a skill but no capital," this removes the biggest excuse. You're getting paid to build something that outlasts the programme itself: a certificate, a trade, and potentially business support.
This is one of those "if you know, you know" opportunities; the question now is whether you're moving fast enough to actually catch it.
OPay x Google N1.2 billion innovation challenge: Your step-by-step guide to applying
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that OPay and Google National Innovation Challenge are giving Nigerian undergraduates a shot at N10 million in prize money and the deadline was extended to July 3, 2026.
Beyond the cash, winners get mentorship, a bootcamp co-delivered by Google and 3MTT, and a direct pipeline into OPay Futures for career placement.
Here's a detailed guide on who qualifies, how to apply, what the judges actually want, and how to stack your entry for the best shot at that top prize.