FG Moves to End Joblessness, Launches National Job Centres Nationwide
The Federal Government has taken a bold step to curb unemployment with the launch of the National Job Centre Project, a network of employability hubs designed to link skilled Nigerians to dignified and sustainable jobs.
The initiative was announced by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, during the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos on Wednesday.
A Key Pillar of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
According to Onyejeocha, the project is a vital part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focused on creating a coordinated, data-driven labour market that connects qualified job seekers to genuine employment opportunities.
“The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system,”
the Minister stated.
She added that the centres aim to empower Nigeria’s youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently in global markets.
Introducing LEEP: Bridging Training and Employment
Onyejeocha also unveiled the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) — a flagship initiative of the ministry aimed at improving employability, strengthening worker protection, and bridging the gap between skills acquisition and real jobs.
“Our goal is not just to create jobs but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance,”
she emphasized.
Mastercard Foundation’s Role
The Minister praised the Mastercard Foundation for its collaboration with the Nigerian government through the Young Africa Works strategy, which has supported thousands of youths in areas of skills development, entrepreneurship, and job creation over the past six years.
She noted that the Foundation’s work aligns with the government’s mission to transform vocational training into sustainable employment, and called on private sector players, development partners, and civil society to join the effort.
A Collective Drive Toward Decent Work
Onyejeocha underscored that creating an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for work requires collective action across sectors.
“We invite partners to collaborate with us in driving job access through these platforms and accelerating economic outcomes across Nigeria’s labour ecosystem,”
she said.
