- The federal government revealed plans to create five million jobs for Nigerian youths to address rising unemployment rates
- The job creation initiative was said to align with President Tinubu’s goal of creating one million digital jobs for Nigerian youths
- A digital platform, the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), would train over seven million youths within two years
The Federal Government has revealed plans to generate five million jobs for Nigerian youths, aimed at addressing the growing issue of youth unemployment and equipping young Nigerians with the skills necessary for economic empowerment.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, made the announcement during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, March 14.
The Minister emphasised the practical nature of the initiative, stating, “This initiative is not just a promise; it is a practical step towards ensuring Nigerian youths have access to sustainable employment opportunities.”
Minister emphasises steps towards sustainable employment
He explained that the initiative would be implemented through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a digital platform designed to provide training to over seven million young people within two years.
Olawande further outlined that the government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, had established various strategic programs such as the Labour Employment and Entrepreneurship Programme (LEEP) to support job creation and skill development.
The minister encouraged young people to take advantage of the platform to enhance their skills in entrepreneurship, digital technology, and vocational training.
Minister confirms NiYA initiative part of Tinubu’s jobs promise
The job creation initiative is in line with the government’s broader goal of fostering productivity and economic growth.
Olawande expressed confidence that, if successfully implemented, the program would significantly reduce unemployment, foster innovation, and empower young Nigerians to play a pivotal role in the country's development.
When asked if the initiative was linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise of creating one million digital jobs, Olawande confirmed, saying, “It is part of it. We looked at it, and we identified the core issues. NIYA is not just about the government; it is a partnership involving everyone.”
3,500 teaching jobs up for grabs as FG announces recruitment for Unity Colleges nationwide
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Government announced a plan to recruit 3,500 new teaching staff to improve educational quality.
The government further revealed it trained over 1,000 workers and constructed 53 vocational centres to meet the skills demands of youth.