Onoji Flags-Off FGN-TVET Skills Training and NSQ Certification Program in Effurun
By Wilson Macaulay
The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Effurun witnessed a momentous occasion recently as the Principal and Chief Executive, Engr. Dr. Samuel E. Onoji, officially flagged off the Federal Government’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (FGN-TVET) Skills Training and National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Certification Program. The ceremony, held at the Institute’s main auditorium, attracted the top management team from the Institute, including, industry leaders, and learners.
The event marks a significant stride towards improving the country’s technical education framework. The PTI Boss, in his keynote address, emphasized the importance of practical skills in today’s job market. “We are at a pivotal moment where technical skills are the lifeblood of the oil and gas sector, and our commitment at PTI is to ensure that our graduates are industry-ready,” he stated.
The FGN-TVET program is set to benefit thousands of young Nigerians through a structured framework designed to impart essential skills in various vocational disciplines. Dr. Onoji highlighted that the NSQ certification will provide a standardized measure of competency, enhancing the employability of participants within the sector.
He emphasized the necessity of technical vocational education in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving economy, stating, “This initiative is crucial for equipping our youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market. The FGN-TVET program aligns with our commitment to fostering a skilled workforce ready to meet both local and international demands.”
The FGN-TVET program, launched by the federal government, aims to enhance the skill sets of Nigerian youth by providing structured training in various technical fields while also facilitating the attainment of National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certifications. This endeavor resonates with PTI’s mission to advance quality technical education and training tailored to meet the demands of the oil and gas industry and beyond.
The PTI Chief Executive highlighted the collaboration between the Petroleum Training Institute and various industry partners that will play a significant role in the successful implementation of the program. “By working closely with industry stakeholders, we can ensure that our training is relevant and aligned with market needs,” he said.
The flag-off ceremony included live demonstrations of skills training modules and testimonies from previous graduates who have benefited from PTI’s vocational programs. The attendees were encouraged by the Institute’s plans to expand its training capabilities, incorporating new technologies and methods tailored to the needs of the industry.
As the program commences, PTI is set to engage local businesses and stakeholders to ensure that the training provided meets the evolving demands of the market. This initiative not only reinforces the Institute’s position as a leading technical training provider but also marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s commitment to skill development and economic growth.
With an overarching goal to create jobs and reduce unemployment, the FGN-TVET skills training and NSQ certification program stands as a beacon of hope for many young Nigerians eager to make their mark in the workforce. The Petroleum Training Institute is poised to play a central role in shaping the skills landscape of the nation for years to come.
The ceremony featured presentations from key officials, including the Institute’s Registrar, Mr. Isaac Fregen, who underscored the government’s commitment to boosting vocational training and enhancing employability among Nigerian youth. Participants were informed about the diverse training modules available, spanning areas such as welding, instrumentation, and other critical disciplines.
Students and aspiring participants expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to acquire practical skills and gain certification that will enhance their prospects in the workforce.
The FGN-TVET Skills Training and NSQ Certification Program at the Petroleum Training Institute Effurun signifies a pivotal step towards bridging the skills gap in Nigeria’s workforce, setting the stage for a more resilient and dynamic economy.

