The ministries of Youth Development and Labour and Employment are collaborating to create five million new jobs. Through the Labour Employment and Entrepreneurship Programme (LEEP) and the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) platform, the two ministries said they are setting a new standard for youth empowerment by creating a pathway for skills development, job placement and entrepreneurship growth.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, while speaking at the signing ceremony of the initiative in Abuja, said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to delivering real, transformative opportunities for our young people. He added that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) underscores the seriousness the government attaches to youth employment.
“For us at the Ministry of Youth Development, we know that the greatest indicator of our success would be how much we can reduce unemployment. And this is why the Ministry of Labour and Employment is an important partner to us. This partnership is about action, not just promises. By integrating vocational training, technology, and mentorship, we are ensuring that Nigerian youth are equipped with the skills required to excel in today’s competitive economy,” he explained.
The Minister stressed that the initiative would prepare youths for existing jobs and also inspire them to become job creators, driving innovation and economic growth across the nation.
He said: “As we sign this MOU today, let us reaffirm our collective dedication to reducing unemployment, expanding economic opportunities, and securing a better future for the youth of Nigeria.”
On her part, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who lauded the initiative, said the focus of the government is to strengthen Nigeria’s workforce and expand job opportunities.
She said: “Today’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development arks a significant step in that direction.
Through LEEP and the NIYA platform, we are creating pathways for skills development, job placement, and entrepreneurship. This collaboration ensures that workers across sectors can access meaningful employment and contribute to national growth.”
She urged stakeholders to remain dedicated to advancing employment opportunities, improving working conditions, and building a resilient and thriving labour force, adding: “Together, we are collaborating to create jobs and economic opportunities for all Nigerians.”
