The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta has launched an N113m TVET Facilities Upgrade Grant to modernise and expand 14 Technical and Vocational Education and Training centres across the Niger Delta.

The investment aims to strengthen the region’s skills development ecosystem by upgrading infrastructure, improving training delivery and enhancing the long-term sustainability of TVET institutions operating in ICT, building construction, agriculture and services.

The PUNCH reports that the beneficiary centres are located in Aba (Abia State), Warri (Delta State), Port Harcourt (Rivers State), Uyo (Akwa Ibom State) and Asaba (Delta State), hubs that collectively support thousands of young people transitioning into work and enterprise.

Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of PIND Foundation, Mr Sam Daibo, emphasised that the initiative goes beyond equipment strengthening to long-term economic transformation.

“We are not just upgrading equipment; we are upgrading futures. This investment ensures that TVET centres can train more young people with skills demanded by today’s industries.

When we strengthen institutions that train youth, we strengthen livelihoods, businesses and the future of the Niger Delta,” he said.

The upgrade programme will run from September 2025 to February 2026 and is expected to directly benefit over 10,000 unemployed youth through market-relevant skills and stronger job and enterprise linkages.

As part of the launch, PIND hosted a strategy workshop with government agencies, private sector partners and development actors to explore pathways for building a more commercially viable and resilient TVET sector in the region.

By enabling TVET centres to operate at higher standards and absorb more learners, PIND is positioning skills development as a catalyst for youth employment, innovation and inclusive growth across the Niger Delta.