The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the Federal Ministry of Education, has inaugurated the Nigerian Sector Skills Council for Agriculture (SSC4A).
The event, held at the United Nations House in Abuja, is part of the Better Education for Africa’s Rise (BEAR III) project, funded by the Republic of Korea. The project aims to develop skills in Nigeria’s agricultural sector and improve youth employment.
Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) are platforms designed to align workforce training with market demands. They focus on the agricultural value chain, addressing skill gaps and improving workforce competitiveness.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo, UNESCO Representative to Nigeria, said, “Agriculture is not only a priority sector for Nigeria but also a critical driver of economic growth and employment. By enhancing skills training and development, we can unlock the immense potential of the sector, particularly for young people, and foster sustainable development.”
Professor Idris Bugaje, NBTE Executive Secretary, said, “Sector Skills Councils promote a demand-driven approach to skills development, ensuring that training programs are aligned with industry needs. The SSC4A will address existing skill gaps, enhance productivity, and strengthen the agricultural sector’s competitiveness.”
Dr. Olodo M.A., representing the Honourable Minister of Education, said, “Agriculture is indispensable to Nigeria’s economic growth agenda. The Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) is crucial in ensuring coordinated and impactful skills training.”
The event brought together representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), and private sector leaders. Discussions focused on bridging skills gaps, improving productivity, and fostering collaboration for workforce development.
FAO Representative Mr. Dominique Koffy Kouacou and ILO Director Ms. Vanessa Phala emphasized agriculture’s importance for youth employment in Nigeria.
The event also included technical sessions where stakeholders reviewed draft operational guidelines for SSCs in implementing the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) system. These sessions will inform SSC4A’s future activities in addressing skill shortages in various agricultural sub-sectors.
Dr. Olodo inaugurated the SSC4A members, advancing efforts to improve Nigeria’s agricultural workforce and align it with industry needs.
