Nigerian Government Enforces Biometric Attendance System for TVET Programmes
The Federal Government has commenced full enforcement of biometric attendance verification across all Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres nationwide, linking trainees’ stipends and institutional payments strictly to verified attendance records.
The Ministry of Education said the enforcement, which took effect from February 1, is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective monitoring of participants under the TVET programme.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Folasade Boriowo, all accredited TVET centres were directed to deploy biometric attendance systems capable of real-time monitoring of trainees.
According to the statement, biometric verification has become “the sole approved method for validating attendance under the TVET Programme,” adding that no manual or alternative attendance records will be recognised for payment purposes.
The ministry explained that the policy is part of renewed efforts by the Federal Government to eliminate sharp practices, prevent ghost beneficiaries, and ensure that public funds are directed only to active and eligible trainees.
TVET is a flagship federal initiative designed to address youth unemployment and bridge skills gaps by equipping Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant competencies across various vocational fields.
The Ministry of Education disclosed that more than 100,000 trainees are currently enrolled in vocational education programmes across about 1,600 vocational schools and training centres nationwide.
It added that the current enrolment represents the first phase of a broader national rollout, with an estimated 250,000 trainees expected to be fully enrolled within the next two to three months.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening vocational education delivery and ensuring that the TVET programme achieves its objectives of enhancing employability, productivity, and economic growth.
