President Bola Tinubu has launched a new national Power Force initiative to train 5,000 young Nigerians to support the rollout of smart electricity meters, strengthen the power sector, and create job opportunities.

The programme, implemented through the Presidential Metering Initiative in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is designed to equip youths with skills and certification.

The first phase of the programme is set to begin in Abuja in July 2026, before subsequent nationwide expansion.

Participants will undergo intensive training and receive recognised certification, coordinated by the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria and overseen by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency.

Qualified candidates will be linked to job opportunities in the electricity distribution sector and other industry partners.

Olu Arowolo Verheijen, the executive secretary of PMI, said the programme would boost customer trust, generate revenue, and increase investment opportunities.

“Metering restores trust. When customers pay only for what they use, revenues improve, investment follows, and service gets better. Power Force helps us scale that progress faster,” Mrs Verheijen said.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the programme reflects the president’s commitment to creating opportunities for youths in the country.

“Young Nigerians want opportunity, not handouts. Power Force gives them practical skills, recognised certification, and a direct pathway to meaningful work that supports national development,” Mr Olawande said.

Application for the initiative can be accessed through the NAPTIN application portal.