Nigeria Approves 26 New Trades for Federal Technical Colleges
Nigeria has approved a new curriculum for Federal Technical Colleges, introducing 26 new trades that will give students practical skills to prepare them for the future job market. The move aims to align education with the country’s economic needs and global industry demands.
The Federal Ministry of Education confirmed that starting from the 2025/2026 academic year, all Federal Science and Technical Colleges will be renamed Federal Technical Colleges. According to a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Bon Folasade, students will now take between nine and ten subjects. These will include one trade course, core general subjects like Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Citizenship and Heritage Studies, as well as related and elective subjects.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa and Minister of State Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad explained that each technical college will be required to offer at least six and up to ten of the approved trade courses. They added that the reform also introduces Citizenship and Heritage Studies alongside science and language subjects to provide a balanced education.
The government said the updated curriculum was designed to meet the rising demand in industries such as digital technology, construction, creative media, agriculture, renewable energy, and other vital sectors. By focusing on practical and modern skills, the curriculum is expected to empower young Nigerians to compete better in the global economy.
This reform follows the recent curriculum review for secondary schools, showing the government’s commitment to upgrading education standards across all levels.
The 26 Approved Trades for Federal Technical Colleges
- Brick laying, block laying, and concreting
- Woodwork, carpentry, and joinery
- Plumbing and pipe fitting
- Computer hardware and GSM repair and maintenance
- Refrigeration and air-conditioning works
- Mechanised agriculture (smart agriculture)
- Autobody works
- Catering craft practice
- Solar PV installation and maintenance
- Fashion design and garment making
- Livestock farming and animal husbandry
- Fish farming (aquaculture)
- Motorcycle and tricycle repairs
- Painting, decoration, and interior finishes
- Welding and fabrication
- Auto-electrical wiring
- Automobile mechanics
- Beauty therapy and cosmetology
- Creative media and digital production
- Electronic systems maintenance
- Furniture making and upholstery
- Networking and system security (including satellite TV installation and maintenance)
- Social media content creation and management
- Tiling and cladding (floor and decorative stonework installation)
- Automobile CNG conversion and maintenance
- Leather works
This update marks one of the biggest reforms in Nigeria’s technical education system, aiming to give young people employable skills while also supporting the country’s economic development.
