The Federal Government has announced a renewed partnership with Germany aimed at reducing illegal migration by providing Nigerian youths with skills training and opportunities for lawful employment abroad.
The initiative focuses on empowering young people with the necessary vocational skills to secure decent jobs and choose safe migration options.
Minister of Labour and Employment Muhammad Dingyadi revealed the development in Abuja after a meeting with Matthias Leder, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Giessen Friedberg. He explained that the collaboration would open structured labour mobility channels for qualified Nigerians seeking career growth overseas.
According to the minister, the programme will support skills acquisition, vocational education, and professional training to boost youth employability. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to equip young people with practical and employable skills. It is a win win for Nigeria and Germany, reducing irregular migration among job seeking youths,” Mr Dingyadi said during the meeting.
He also emphasised that Nigeria intends to adopt elements of Germany’s dual vocational training model, which combines classroom learning with practical industry experience, to further strengthen the country’s technical education system. He noted that this approach would help produce a more skilled and globally competitive workforce.
Mr Dingyadi confirmed that 18 young Nigerians have been selected for the first phase of the training programme in Germany, describing it as a significant milestone for safe and structured migration. “We will celebrate these 18 trainees in Lagos on November 12. They represent a new chapter in safe structured migration and youth empowerment,” he added.
On his part, Mr Leder disclosed that 300 applicants were shortlisted for the pilot programme, with only 18 chosen after going through a rigorous selection process. He said all selected candidates passed the first level of the German language examination and would continue their language studies up to the B2 level before travelling to Germany for the programme.
