The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to launching and implementing a comprehensive range of targeted youth employment programs to address the growing issue of unemployment in the country.
The commitment was made public during the commemoration of the 2024 World Youth Skills Day, themed “Youth Skills For Peace & Development,” organized by the Ministry of Youth Development at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
In her keynote address, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth Development, detailed the Ministry’s initiatives aimed at tackling unemployment and bridging the significant employment gap among Nigeria’s rapidly growing youth population.
Dr. Ibrahim outlined several new programs designed to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to enter the workforce and contribute positively to the nation’s economy.
She emphasized the proactive measures the Ministry has undertaken to address the escalating issue of youth unemployment.
She highlighted the Ministry’s recent establishment of a state-of-the-art tailoring hub at the National Youth Development Centre in Odeomu, Osun State.
”This hub is equipped with modern fashion and tailoring machinery, providing a conducive environment for young entrepreneurs to acquire and refine their skills in fashion design and related fields,” she stated.
Dr. Ibrahim pointed out the global challenge of youth unemployment, particularly in developing countries where many young people are underemployed and exposed to low-quality jobs.
She expressed confidence that the 2024 World Skills Day would foster collaboration among key stakeholders in youth development and enhance enthusiasm for skill acquisition and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
She said the event aligns with the government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” aiming to create a robust platform for skill development and empowerment.
On his part, Olawande Ayodele, Minister of State for Youth Development, reinforced the government’s commitment to equipping the youth with essential skills for better employability.
He emphasized the importance of job fairs in promoting skill acquisition and announced an ambitious goal to ensure that seven million Nigerian youths acquire at least two skills each within the next two years, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s renewed hope agenda.
Also speaking, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries, guests from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, development partners, youth leaders, and other stakeholders.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing skills acquisition, nurturing peace, and promoting socio-economic growth throughout Nigeria.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has inaugurated the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), aiming to eliminate financial barriers to higher education and promote inclusivity across Nigeria.
During the digital launch at the State House, President Tinubu emphasized education as a crucial tool against poverty and a pathway to national development.
He commended NELFUND’s leadership, chaired by Mr. Jim Ovia, and managed by Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, for their dedication in driving the initiative forward.
