On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu introduced Power Force, a countrywide program aimed at training 5,000 Nigerian youths to become specialists in installing intelligent electric meters.
The head of the Presidential Metering Program, Ms. Olu Verheijen, revealed information about the project in a document dated Thursday with the title, "President Tinubu Unveils Power Team to Educate 5,000 Nigerian Youths, Speed Up Smart Meter Deployment."
She mentioned that the program, set to start accepting applications on July 4, will also generate job prospects throughout the energy supply network and speed up the installation of measurement systems as part of continuous electricity industry improvements under the Renewed Hope Initiative.
She mentioned that the program is being carried out under the Presidential Metering Initiative, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and aims to address significant skill shortages in meter installation.
It will further provide attendees with hands-on technical education, accredited credentials, and opportunities for job placement as well as starting their own businesses in the power distribution sector.
Verheijen mentioned that the program tackled both a technological gap and a lack of confidence within the energy industry at once. "Measurement rebuilds trust. When consumers pay just for their usage, income increases, funding comes in, and service quality improves. Power Force enables us to accelerate this development," she stated.
The initial stage of the program will begin in Abuja in July 2026, followed by expansions into the six geopolitical regions. Trainees will receive comprehensive technical instruction provided by the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, whereas accreditation and adherence requirements will be managed by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency.
Qualified participants will have access to placement options with distribution firms, metering suppliers, and additional sector collaborators.
The head of the Nigeria Governors' Forum and leader of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, referred to Power Force as a federal project that linked prospects closely with nationwide effects.
"Power Force is an alliance project that links prospects with effect, generating employment for youthful Nigerians and enhancing power availability across all states," he stated.
The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, described the project as a commitment to developing human resources, which serves as the basis for improved performance within the sector. "A more robust energy sector starts with qualified individuals. Power Force supports Nigerian skills to drive our country's future," he stated.
The Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, stated that the initiative highlights the government's intentional effort to establish real economic opportunities for Nigerian youth instead of relying on aid distributions.
As stated by the minister, "Young people from Nigeria seek opportunities rather than charity. Power Force equips them with hands-on training, accredited qualifications, and a clear route to productive employment that contributes to the country's growth."
Verheijen stated that Power Force was an element of the administration's larger initiative aimed at enhancing the financial viability of the electricity industry through lowering projected bills, increasing clarity regarding consumer fees, reinforcing income gathering, and promoting more effective service provision.
She mentioned that it further highlights President Tinubu's dedication to empowering young people and generating employment opportunities. "The application process for the initial group starts on July 4, 2026, and will stay open for two weeks. You can find the eligibility requirements and program information at pmi.com.ng or through pmi.naptin.gov.ng," she added.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).