7 Federal Government Empowerment Programmes Nigerians Can Apply for in 2026

As 2026 approaches, many Nigerians are already thinking ahead — not about political promises, but about real opportunities that can lead to skills, income, and long-term stability.

Over the past few years, federal government empowerment programmes have slowly shifted from talk-heavy initiatives to structured interventions that offer training, stipends, work placements, and startup support. These programmes demand commitment, but for those who take them seriously, they can be life-changing.

Based on how they currently operate, here are seven federal government empowerment programmes Nigerians should prepare for in 2026, with their official portals included.

1. Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP)

YEIDEP, formerly known as NIYEEDEP, focuses on enterprise support and youth economic inclusion. It targets young Nigerians who already have a business idea or a small existing venture and are willing to undergo basic training or mentoring.

One of its strongest features is direct funding. Beneficiaries may receive a one-time grant between ₦50,000 and ₦500,000, depending on business category and assessment outcome.

The programme is implemented in batches, and applications are handled online.

Official portal: https://yeidep.org

2. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

The Federal Ministry of Education’s TVET programme is designed for Nigerians who want practical, hands-on skills rather than paper qualifications.

Participants are trained in trades such as electrical work, mechanics, ICT, construction, and other technical fields. Attendance is mandatory, and trainees currently receive a ₦22,500 monthly stipend during training.

TVET is open to Nigerians under 35 who are ready to commit to structured learning.

Official portal: https://tvet.education.gov.ng

3. National Directorate of Employment (NDE)

The National Directorate of Employment remains one of Nigeria’s oldest empowerment institutions, now operating under the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI).

NDE runs multiple schemes covering vocational skills, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and community-based programmes. Depending on the scheme, stipends usually range from ₦10,000 to ₦35,000 during training.

Phase 3 of current NDE programmes is expected to open in 2026.

Official portal: https://nderegistrationportal.ng

4. Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP)

The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme is a 12-month paid work placement for unemployed Nigerian graduates.

Rather than classroom training, fellows are placed in real organisations and receive ₦150,000 monthly throughout the programme. It targets graduates aged 30 or below who have completed NYSC.

For many past participants, NJFP has served as a bridge into permanent employment.

Official portal: https://njfp.ng

5. 3 Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT)

The 3MTT programme aims to build Nigeria’s digital workforce at scale. It offers free training in areas such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

While there is usually no fixed cash stipend, participants benefit from structured learning, mentorship, and access to digital career opportunities that can generate long-term income.

Official portal: https://3mtt.nitda.gov.ng

6. ITF Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA)

The Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), run by the Industrial Training Fund, focuses on upgrading the skills of artisans across different trades.

Recent participants received ₦35,000 stipends during training, along with certification and exposure to modern industry standards.

SUPA is open to both existing and aspiring artisans.

Official portal: https://supa.itf.gov.ng

7. Circular Economy Youth Empowerment Initiative (CEYEI)

Often referred to as the Waste-to-Wealth initiative, CEYEI trains young Nigerians in recycling, waste management, and green enterprise.

While stipends are not always clearly fixed nationwide, participants gain valuable skills, industry exposure, and access to sustainability-focused opportunities — an area with growing economic relevance.

Applications are usually announced through federal environment and youth platforms.

Information portal: https://environment.gov.ng