If you’re a Nigerian graduate preparing for your National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, you’ve probably heard about the SAED program. SAED (Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development) is your golden ticket to learning valuable skills that can turn you from a job seeker to a job creator. Let’s break down the best SAED programs to join in 2025/2026 and how they can change your life!
Why SAED Matters for NYSC Corp Members
The Nigerian government introduced SAED to tackle unemployment by teaching young graduates practical skills. Instead of waiting for office jobs, SAED helps you start your own business or stand out in the job market. Whether you’re posted to Lagos, Kano, or a small village, SAED gives you tools to succeed.
Top SAED Programs to Consider in 2025/2026
Here are the hottest SAED skills you should join during your NYSC camp: (NYSC Remobilisation: What You Need to Know if You Left Camp Early)
1. Agro-Allied Business
- What You’ll Learn: Fish farming, poultry, crop production, and modern food processing.
- Why It’s Great: Nigeria’s economy depends on agriculture. Start a farm or sell processed foods like plantain chips!
2. ICT & Digital Skills
- What You’ll Learn: Web design, graphic design, coding, and digital marketing.
- Why It’s Great: Tech skills are in high demand. Work online or help businesses grow their social media presence.
3. Beauty & Cosmetology
- What You’ll Learn: Hairdressing, makeup, skincare, and soap/perfume making.
- Why It’s Great: Open a salon, sell homemade beauty products, or become a celebrity makeup artist!
4. Film & Photography
- What You’ll Learn: Video editing, photography, scriptwriting, and camera handling.
- Why It’s Great: Nollywood is booming! Capture weddings, create YouTube content, or start a photography studio.
5. Power & Energy
- What You’ll Learn: Solar panel installation, inverter repairs, and renewable energy solutions.
- Why It’s Great: With constant power issues, this skill puts you in high demand. Help homes/businesses go solar!
How to Choose the Right SAED Program
- Follow Your Passion: Pick a skill you enjoy. If you love cooking, go for Food Processing!
- Check Market Demand: Ask locals in your PPA (Place of Primary Assignment) what services they need (NYSC PPA Job in Ikeja, Lagos: Light Heights Global Services Limited Needs A Corper).
- Think Long-Term: Can this skill become a full-time business after NYSC?
How to Join SAED in NYSC Camp
- Attend the SAED orientation lecture during camp.
- Visit the SAED exhibition stand to see trainers demonstrate skills.
- Fill the SAED registration form and pick your preferred skill.
- Attend training sessions and get your participation certificate.
Pro Tips for SAED Success
- Practice daily – even 30 minutes a day makes you a pro!
- Use SAEDConnect (the official NYSC platform) to find mentors and business partners.
- Team up with other corps members. For example, if you learn Fashion Design, partner with someone in ICT to create an online store.
Final Word
Your NYSC year isn’t just about wearing khaki or serving your PPA. SAED is your chance to learn a skill that feeds you for life. Whether you’re fixing cars, designing websites, or making hair, remember: today’s small hustle can become tomorrow’s big business. Don’t just serve Nigeria – let Nigeria serve you too!