FG Reaffirms Free Technical Education, Warns Against Illegal Charges

The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing free technical education across Nigeria, cautioning schools and administrators against imposing unauthorized fees on students.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa emphasized that all Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs) are fully funded by the government. This includes coverage of tuition, boarding, uniforms, textbooks, exercise books, ID cards, stationery, clubs and societies, medical services, vocational training, utilities, security, website/e-result services, Skool Media, extra lessons, and insurance.

Dr. Alausa asserted, “No Nigerian child should be denied access to technical education because of illegal charges.

By investing in education today, we are building a stronger, self-reliant Nigeria.”

The Minister warned that no principal or administrator is permitted to impose extra levies on parents or guardians.

To eliminate any ambiguity, circulars reinforcing this policy will be distributed to all schools and parents.

While the government covers tuition and major expenses, students in boarding schools are still expected to provide personal items such as bedding, toiletries, school shoes, uniforms for religious observances, mosquito nets, cutlery, and other essentials.

This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of human capital development. By equipping young Nigerians with practical and employable skills, the government aims to strengthen national competitiveness and economic growth.

The Ministry further assured that monitoring mechanisms are already in place to swiftly address infractions and safeguard the integrity of the free education policy. Stakeholders were urged to support efforts to ensure Federal Technical Colleges fulfill their mandate of producing skilled graduates for national transformation.

To strengthen enforcement, parents have been urged to report any cases of illegal charges through hotlines 0803 657 6733, 0803 637 3796.