The Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Technology Institute in Lafia, Nasarawa State, is positioning itself as a major center for technical and vocational skills development, with modern facilities designed to equip youths with practical and industry-relevant skills.
During the tour of the institute, the Executive Director, Dr. Daniel Ewuga Asele, spoke about the vision behind the project and its importance to the development of skilled manpower in Nasarawa State and Nigeria.
Dr. Daniel Ewuga explained that the facility was established to address the shortage of certified skilled workers and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign labor. He noted that his experience in the private sector exposed him to the challenges of sourcing adequately trained Nigerian technicians for major industrial projects.
According to him, this experience strengthened the vision of developing a vocational institution where Nigerians, particularly youths, could acquire internationally relevant technical skills and obtain recognised certifications.
The institute boasts modern facilities for disciplines including advanced welding, fabrication, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), ICT and other technical trades.
Instructors demonstrated the advanced welding facilities, where trainees receive hands-on training using individual workstations and modern safety and ventilation systems. 
The CNC section also showcased the institute’s focus on modern manufacturing. Trainees are taught to design components using computer software, generate machine codes and transfer the designs to CNC machines for automated production. The technology enables precision manufacturing and mass production with minimal manual intervention.
Officials said the facilities are designed to expose trainees to modern industrial practices and prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship and further professional development.
The institute has trained thousands of Nigerians and offers a wide range of vocational and technology programmes. Its broader objective is to develop a skilled workforce capable of creating employment, supporting industries and contributing to the economic development of Nasarawa State.
The initiative reflects the Nasarawa State Government’s emphasis on science, technology, innovation and skills acquisition as tools for reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance among young people.