The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to prioritising skills over paper qualifications, stressing that technical and vocational education would drive Nigeria’s future workforce.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Mohammed Bugaje, and executives of the Creative Media Sector Skills Council, led by its chairperson, Fatima Haliru.

“The message is clear: skills, not just degrees, will define the future of our workforce. Many of our young people are already talented in areas like photography, cinematography, and digital services. What this framework does is give them the recognition they deserve, opening pathways for higher training, employment, and entrepreneurship,” Idris said.

The minister described the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) as a game-changer for professionals with competencies acquired through hands-on experience, but who lack formal certification.

He pledged that his ministry would work closely with the NBTE and the Creative Media Sector Skills Council to standardise and certify skills in the creative industry, noting that the move aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The Ministry of Information will collaborate fully with stakeholders across broadcast, advertising, and information sectors to raise professional standards, unlock economic opportunities, and empower our youth,” Idris promised.

In his remarks, the NBTE boss, Bugaje, said the Creative Media Sector Skills Council, established seven months ago as the 20th in the country, had developed 24 qualifications in areas such as audio production, content creation and photography.

He explained that the RPL scheme would certify informally trained professionals such as apprentices in broadcasting and media, giving them nationally recognised NSQ certificates.

On her part, Haliru noted that the council has over 70 per cent private sector participation.

“We are aligning with global best practices to ensure industry drives skill development,” she said.