Skills Development and Nigeria Development Strategies: A Proposed Policy Framework

Abstract

Skills development is central to Nigeria’s economic reform agenda, particularly in light of persistent youth unemployment and rapidly evolving labour market demands. The objective of this study is to examine existing skills development policies in Nigeria and propose a coherent policy framework that aligns skills supply with national development strategies. Drawing on a qualitative research approach, the study employs content analysis of key policy documents, including the Nigeria Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), National Youth Policy, and the Nigeria Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), alongside secondary data analysis. The findings reveal significant gaps in policy coordination, implementation effectiveness, stakeholder participation, and alignment between education, training systems, and labour market needs. These gaps continue to undermine the capacity of skills development initiatives to respond to economic and workforce realities. Based on these findings, the study recommends the adoption of an integrated skills development policy framework supported by effective governance structures, stronger inter-agency coordination, inclusive stakeholder engagement, and sustainable financing mechanisms. The study contributes to policy and academic literature by offering evidence-based insights and practical recommendations for strengthening skills development systems in Nigeria.