The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has announced the commencement of the Third Phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI 3), a nationwide programme aimed at equipping unemployed Nigerians with practical skills for sustainable employment and self-reliance.
The initiative is designed to provide vocational, agricultural, entrepreneurial, and public works training to eligible Nigerians across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). According to the NDE, the programme forms part of the federal government’s efforts to reduce unemployment by empowering citizens with marketable skills.
Trade Test Certificate: How to Apply, Requirements, Price and Benefits
What is the NDE Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI 3)?
The Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI 3) is the flagship employment creation programme of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE).
The programme is designed to equip unemployed Nigerians with skills in the following areas:
-
Vocational skills
-
Agricultural skills
-
Entrepreneurship development
-
Public works skills
The training is intended to improve participants’ employability and encourage self-employment through practical, marketable skills.
When Will NDE RHEI 3 Registration Start?
The National Directorate of Employment has released the following schedule:
Activity
Date
Registration Opens
Thursday, 23 July 2026
Registration Closes
One week after opening
Nationwide Flag-off
Tuesday, 4 August 2026
Training Begins
Immediately after the flag-off ceremony
Applicants are encouraged to complete their registration before the portal closes, as late applications may not be accepted.
Official NDE Registration Portal
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official NDE registration portal:
Portal:https://www.nderegistrationportal.ng
Applicants are advised to use only the official portal and carefully read all instructions before submitting their applications.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the NDE Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI 3), applicants must:
-
Be a Nigerian citizen.
-
Be unemployed and unskilled.
-
Be between 18 and 45 years of age.
-
Be willing to participate in the skills acquisition programme.
The NDE also stated that persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply, as the programme promotes inclusion and equal opportunity.
Who Is Not Eligible?
The following individuals are not eligible:
-
Beneficiaries who participated in Phase One of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative.
-
Beneficiaries who participated in Phase Two of the programme.
Only new applicants who meet the eligibility requirements will be considered.
Programme Areas
Successful applicants will receive training in one of the following areas:
-
Vocational Skills Development
-
Agricultural Skills Development
-
Entrepreneurship Development
-
Public Works Training
The programme aims to provide practical skills that participants can use to secure employment or start their own businesses.
How to Apply for NDE RHEI 3
Follow these steps to apply:
-
Visit the official NDE registration portal.
-
Carefully read the registration guidelines.
-
Create your account on the portal.
-
Complete the online application form.
-
Provide accurate personal information.
-
Submit your application before the deadline.
Applicants should ensure that all information provided is correct to avoid disqualification.
Registration Guidelines
Before submitting your application, remember the following:
-
Registration is conducted online.
-
Read all instructions carefully before applying.
-
Submit only accurate information.
-
Apply before the registration deadline.
-
Use only the official registration portal.
Selection Process
According to the NDE, beneficiaries will be selected from every electoral ward across Nigeria.
This approach is intended to ensure fairness, equity, and balanced national development by giving qualified applicants from every part of the country an equal opportunity to participate.
The programme also accommodates persons living with disabilities.
Training Duration
The NDE announced that the training programme will last for a maximum of six (6) months.
Successful applicants are expected to participate throughout the training period.
Nationwide Flag-off Ceremony
The official launch of the training programme will take place on:
Date: Tuesday, 4 August 2026
The ceremony will be held simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), after which training will commence nationwide.
Need Assistance?
Applicants who require further information or assistance can visit the nearest National Directorate of Employment (NDE) State Office.
For official enquiries:
National Directorate of Employment (NDE)
Plot 1074, Cadastral Zone, Sector B18, Gudu District, Abuja
Telephone: 08075755072
Official website:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is NDE RHEI 3 registration free?
Yes. Applicants register through the official NDE portal without paying a registration fee.
What is the official NDE registration portal?
The official portal is.
Who can apply for RHEI 3?
Unemployed and unskilled Nigerians between 18 and 45 years of age who meet the programme requirements can apply.
When will the training begin?
Training begins immediately after the nationwide flag-off ceremony scheduled for 4 August 2026.
How long is the training?
The training programme lasts for a maximum of six months.
Can previous beneficiaries apply again?
No. Beneficiaries of RHEI Phase 1 and Phase 2 are not eligible for Phase 3.
What skills will participants learn?
Participants will receive training in vocational, agricultural, entrepreneurial, and public works skills.
Will persons with disabilities be considered?
Yes. The programme provides equal opportunities for qualified persons living with disabilities.
How are beneficiaries selected?
Beneficiaries are selected from every electoral ward across the federation to ensure equitable representation.
Where can I get more information?
Visit your nearest NDE State Office or the official NDE website for further information.
Conclusion
The NDE Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI 3) provides unemployed Nigerians with an opportunity to acquire practical vocational, agricultural, entrepreneurial, and public works skills that can improve their chances of employment and self-reliance.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to register within the specified period through the official NDE registration portal and carefully follow all application instructions to improve their chances of selection.
