Nigeria’s youth, making up over 60% of the population, are a vital force for the nation’s economic and social development. Recognizing this, the Federal Government of Nigeria has launched several youth empowerment programs in 2025 to address unemployment, poverty, and skill gaps. These initiatives aim to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, financial support, and opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment.
From agriculture to digital literacy and creative industries, these programs offer diverse pathways for youth to thrive. Below is a detailed guide to the best government youth programs in Nigeria for 2025, including their benefits, eligibility, and application processes.
Top Government Youth Programs in 2025
1. Federal Government FSB Scholarship
Overview: Offered by the Federal Ministry of Education, the FSB Scholarship supports undergraduate and postgraduate students in Nigerian tertiary institutions to alleviate the financial burden of education.
Benefits:
-
Annual funding of ₦300,000–₦450,000.
- Covers tuition and related academic expenses.
Eligibility:
-
Nigerian students in accredited tertiary institutions.
-
Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
How to Apply:
-
Register through the Federal Ministry of Education’s scholarship portal.
-
Submit academic transcripts, a valid ID (e.g., NIN), and proof of enrollment.
-
Applications typically open annually, with deadlines announced via official channels.
2. Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF)
Overview: The CEDF is a national investment in Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries, fostering economic diversification and job creation for young creatives.
Benefits:
-
Access to up to $100,000 in funding.
-
Business mentorship and networking opportunities.
-
Career development in creative sectors like film, music, and fashion.
Eligibility:
-
Young Nigerians aged 18–35 with viable creative business ideas.
-
Must demonstrate potential for economic impact.
How to Apply:
-
Submit a business plan and application through the CEDF portal.
-
Provide NIN, BVN, and proof of creative work or business.
—
3. SMEDAN Agribusiness Empowerment Development Fund
Overview: Managed by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), this program supports youth in agricultural production, processing, and marketing.
Benefits:
-
Technical training in modern farming techniques.
-
Access to funding and agricultural inputs.
-
Mentorship and market access support.
Eligibility:
-
Individuals or groups engaged in agribusiness.
-
Youth aged 18–35 with an interest in agriculture.
How to Apply:
-
Register on the SMEDAN portal with NIN, BVN, and farm details.
-
Attend mandatory training sessions for shortlisted candidates.
4. Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP)
Overview: YEIDEP leverages the agricultural sector to create jobs, reduce poverty, and promote national stability, targeting 6 million direct jobs in 2025.
Benefits:
-
Vocational training and financial grants.
-
Business mentorship and networking opportunities.
-
Entrepreneurship tools for agro-based ventures.
Eligibility:
-
Youth aged 18–35 interested in agriculture.
-
Must provide valid ID and proof of residence.
How to Apply:
-
Register via the NIYEEDEP portal with BVN, NIN, and qualifications.
-
Select preferred program category (e.g., skill training or grants).
5. Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP)
Overview: LEEP focuses on skills acquisition, vocational training, and entrepreneurship to create sustainable employment opportunities for unemployed youth.
Benefits:
-
Hands-on training and skill certification.
-
Access to global job markets and networking.
-
Startup grants for entrepreneurs.
Eligibility:
-
Unemployed Nigerians aged 18–35.
-
Interest in vocational or entrepreneurial skills.
How to Apply:
-
Apply through the Ministry of Labour’s portal with NIN, BVN, and CV.
-
Specify sector interest and business idea, if applicable.
6. NITDA Digital Literacy For All (DL4All)
Overview: Launched by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), DL4All provides free digital skills training to prepare youth for the digital economy.
Benefits:
-
Free online courses in coding, cybersecurity, and digital marketing.
-
Certifications recognized by employers.
-
Networking with tech industry professionals.
Eligibility:
-
Open to all Nigerians, with priority for youth aged 18–35.
-
Basic literacy and access to a computer or smartphone required.
How to Apply:
-
Register on the NITDA DL4All platform with basic personal details.
-
Complete online courses and assessments to earn certifications.
7. Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Program
Overview: A collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), SUPA trains and licenses young artisans in tech-enabled skills like welding, carpentry, and tailoring.
Benefits:
-
Professional training and toolkits.
-
National licensing for industry-standard excellence.
-
Empowerment for self-employment.
Eligibility:
-
Youth aged 18–35 with an interest in artisanal trades.
-
Basic literacy and commitment to training required.
How to Apply:
-
Apply via the ITF portal with NIN and proof of interest in a trade.
-
Attend orientation and training sessions.
8. Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG)
Overview: This initiative promotes clean energy and youth entrepreneurship by distributing 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles to young Nigerians.
Benefits:
-
Job creation through tricycle operation.
-
Business support for sustainable entrepreneurship.
-
Training in clean energy solutions.
Eligibility:
-
Youth aged 18–35 with a valid driver’s license.
-
Interest in transportation or entrepreneurship.
How to Apply:
-
Register on the Pi-CNG portal with NIN, BVN, and license details.
-
Await selection for tricycle distribution and training.
9. YouthCred National Consumer Credit Scheme
Overview: Launched in 2025, YouthCred offers low-interest, collateral-free loans to youth, including NYSC members, to boost financial literacy and economic inclusion.
Benefits:
-
Loans for small businesses or personal development.
-
Digital financial literacy training.
-
No guarantors required.
Eligibility:
-
Nigerians aged 18–39, including NYSC members.
-
Valid BVN and NIN required.
How to Apply:
-
Register online with BVN and NIN.
-
Complete financial literacy training for loan approval.
10. National Youth Conference (Youth Confab)
Overview: This conference gathers 36,000 youths from all 774 LGAs to develop policies on six priority themes, empowering youth voices in national development.
Benefits:
-
Opportunity to influence national policy.
-
Networking with policymakers and peers.
-
Leadership and advocacy training.
Eligibility:
-
Youth aged 18–35 with leadership potential.
-
Must represent a local government area or diaspora community.
How to Apply:
-
Register by June 30, 2025, with credentials and policy proposals.
-
Selection based on merit and gender balance.
READ ALSO: Youth Programs 101: Definition, Purpose, and Impact
FAQs
Are these programs free to join?
Most programs are free or subsidized, though some require minimal documentation (e.g., NIN, BVN). Training and tools are typically provided at no cost.
Can I apply for multiple programs?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each program. However, prioritize programs that align with your goals to maximize impact.
How long does it take to get selected?
Selection timelines vary. Some programs, like YouthCred, process applications within days, while others, like FSB Scholarships, may take weeks or months.
Do these programs guarantee funding or jobs?
Not all programs offer direct funding or jobs. Some provide training, tools, or certifications, while others, like CEDF and YouthCred, offer grants or loans.
Who can I contact for application issues?
Contact the relevant program’s helpdesk or visit state ministries (e.g., Ministry of Youth Development or Agriculture) for in-person assistance.