FG Disbursed ₦116bn Education Loans as 2 Million Nigerians Apply for 3MTT Programme

The Federal Government has announced significant strides in youth empowerment, revealing that over ₦116 billion has been disbursed as education loans, while nearly two million Nigerians have applied for opportunities under the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme aimed at developing the nation’s digital and technical workforce.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the disclosure on Monday during the APC North West Youth Rally held in Dutse, Jigawa State. The event brought together thousands of young Nigerians to commemorate two years of achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Idris emphasized that young people remain at the heart of the Tinubu administration’s focus on national development and inclusion.

“From cabinet appointments to digital innovation and education reforms, young Nigerians are not just part of the story—they are driving it,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the successes of various youth-focused initiatives, including the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, which has certified one million Nigerians across 25 trades. He noted that about a quarter of those trained have already been deployed to various training and skills development centres across the country.

He also mentioned the Energizing Education Programme managed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), which provides uninterrupted power supply to universities and teaching hospitals such as Bayero University, Kano, and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, to improve research and learning environments.

On economic reforms, Idris revealed that the forthcoming Nigeria Tax Act will exempt small businesses earning ₦100 million or less from paying company income and capital gains taxes. He explained that this policy is designed to encourage entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth, and stimulate sustainable business growth.

The Minister urged young Nigerians to remain agents of positive change and nation-building, cautioning against the spread of fake news and divisive rhetoric.

“Let’s use our voices and platforms to build, not to destroy. President Tinubu’s leadership is about giving every Nigerian, no matter their background, a fair chance to succeed,” he said.

The rally was attended by Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, APC National Youth Leader Dr. Dayo Israel, and several other dignitaries from across the North West region.