The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and vocational training with a ₦2 million support package to a non-governmental organization, Ladi Memorial Foundation, the support was announced during the 2025 National Skills Championship (NSC25) Award Ceremony organized by the foundation, The NCCE’s package was split into ₦1 million for outstanding students’ winners and ₦1 million for the organizers of the championship. The event took place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the Government Science Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja.



In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary of NCCE, Professor Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, represented by Dr. Pius Ekireghwo, Director of ICT at NCCE, emphasized that the foundation’s objective of recognizing and rewarding excellence in skills acquisition and vocational training aligns with NCCE’s mandate to promote technical education and youth empowerment across the country. Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ladi Memorial Foundation, Professor Steve Nwokeocha, welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that foster healthy competition and reward excellence among Nigerian youths. The winners in the NCCE category were:



First Position – Adeboye Esther Ajoke (Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, Ogun State) – ₦500,000 Second Position – Aituayuwa Faith Eseosa (Federal College of Education, Ekiadolor, Edo State) – ₦300,000 Third Position – Ihekwueme Victory Chinedu (Federal College of Education, Ekiadolor, Edo State) – ₦200,000 The ceremony highlighted the significance of vocational skills as a catalyst for empowerment, productivity, and national growth. Earlier, during the Boot Camp session, Dr. Pius served as a resource person, where he presented a paper titled “ICT in Fashion Design: How ICT is Weaving the Future of Fashion.” In recognition of his accomplishments, the Foundation announced plans to formally honour Dr. Pius at a ceremony to be held at NCCE soon.

The event, however, featured cultural entertainment, partner recognitions, and awards in multiple categories, including tailoring, garment making, leadership, and sportsmanship. Recognition awards were also presented to the NCCE, as well as to other distinguished individuals, states, and volunteers for their contributions to youth and skills development.