The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to free technical education and skills development with the opening of applications for admission into Federal Technical Colleges across the country.
The announcement was made by the Federal Ministry of Education following approval by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to quality technical and vocational education in Nigeria.
According to the Ministry, registration for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) into Federal Technical Colleges will begin on Monday, January 26, 2026, and close on Sunday, May 24, 2026. The entrance examination is scheduled to hold nationwide on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Prospective candidates are expected to apply through the official online portal of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB). The Ministry stressed that possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory and remains a key requirement for successful registration.
The Federal Government also reiterated that education in Federal Technical Colleges is fully funded upon admission, underscoring its commitment to human capital development, youth empowerment, and the provision of industry-relevant skills for young Nigerians.
Eligibility for admission is open to candidates between the ages of 13 and 20 years. Parents, guardians, and applicants have been advised to adhere strictly to the prescribed application guidelines and to rely only on official information from the Federal Ministry of Education and designated examination bodies.
The Ministry noted that the initiative aligns with broader national objectives aimed at promoting self-reliance, boosting economic productivity, and supporting sustainable development through technical and vocational education.
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