The Federal Government has unveiled a new mentorship initiative aimed at developing engineering and technical skills across Nigeria, with implementation expected to begin in January 2026. The programme is designed to select a minimum of ten participants from each state of the federation, creating opportunities for young professionals to gain hands-on experience in major infrastructure projects.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed that the initiative is focused on building local capacity through direct exposure to real construction and engineering work. Rather than limiting learning to theory, participants will be integrated into ongoing federal projects within their states, allowing them to acquire practical knowledge that supports long-term professional growth.
According to the minister, the programme will be open to civil engineers, technical graduates, skilled artisans, and other qualified technical workers. Recruitment will be conducted nationwide to ensure equal representation and access across all states. Successful applicants will be attached to active road and infrastructure projects, where they will work under experienced engineers and contractors.
The mentorship structure is intended to bridge the gap between academic training and field experience. Participants will receive on-site training, industry exposure, and direct involvement in large-scale projects, equipping them with skills that are difficult to gain in classrooms alone. This approach is expected to improve the quality of local expertise in Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure sector.
At the completion of the programme, the government plans to explore support options that will help outstanding participants acquire essential tools and equipment. This support is expected to enable beneficiaries to take up subcontracting roles and contribute independently to future projects, strengthening indigenous participation in national development.
The mentorship programme aligns with the federal government’s broader goal of promoting technology transfer, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure development. By investing in human capital at the state level, the initiative aims to create a new generation of technically competent professionals capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
