The Federal Government has unveiled two new initiatives aimed at addressing youth unemployment and modernising Nigeria’s labour market.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, announced the programmes — the National Job Centre Project and the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) — at the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos on Wednesday.
Onyejeocha said the National Job Centre Project would establish a nationwide network of employability hubs equipped with digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to directly connect skilled Nigerians with employment opportunities.
She added that LEEP is designed to improve the employability of young Nigerians and facilitate their transition from training to formal employment.
“The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system,” Onyejeocha said. “They form part of a national labour framework that empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently on the global stage.”
The minister noted that beyond job creation, the initiatives aim to strengthen labour market governance, ensure fair wages, and protect workers’ rights.
Onyejeocha called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and development partners to promote inclusive and sustainable employment.
“We invite partners to collaborate with us in driving job access through these platforms and accelerating economic outcomes across Nigeria’s labour ecosystem,” she added.