FG to establish national job centres to tackle unemployment – Minister
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the minister of state for labour and employment, has unveiled plans for a network of National Job Centres across Nigeria as part of the federal government’s effort to create dignified, inclusive, and transformative work opportunities in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The announcement was contained in a statement released by Tósìn Olúwalọ́wọ̀, her special adviser on media and communications, on Wednesday, following Onyejeocha’s remarks at the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening in Lagos.
According to the minister, the National Job Centre Project will serve as a nationwide network of employability hubs designed to connect skilled Nigerians to real job opportunities and strengthen the country’s labour market infrastructure.
“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.”
She also unveiled the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), a flagship initiative aimed at improving the employability of young Nigerians and easing the transition from training to employment.
“Through LEEP, we are enhancing the employability of young Nigerians and strengthening the bridge between training and jobs,” she explained. “Our goal is not just to create employment but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance.”
Onyejeocha commended the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with Nigeria through the Young Africa Works strategy, noting that it has provided youth with essential skills, job opportunities, and entrepreneurship support.
“Over the past six years, through the Young Africa Works strategy, your partnerships have not only provided skills but opened pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship, and hope for thousands across Nigeria,” she said.
She added that the Foundation’s strategy aligns strongly with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to turn skills development into sustainable employment opportunities.
“Your focus on evidence, collaboration, and inclusion resonates deeply with the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly our national drive to make skills-to-jobs a reality for every Nigerian youth,” she added.
Onyejeocha emphasised the need for collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, and civil society to build a resilient labour market.
“Building an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for work requires collective effort. 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.
