FG Launches Nationwide Job Centres to Tackle Unemployment

The Federal Government has unveiled the National Job Centre Project, a nationwide network of employability hubs designed to reduce unemployment and promote dignified, inclusive, and transformative work opportunities for Nigerians.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, announced the initiative at the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos on Wednesday. She explained that the project forms a crucial part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at connecting skilled Nigerians with real job opportunities while strengthening the country’s labour market systems.

According to Onyejeocha, the centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive national employment system. She added that the initiative would empower young people to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete globally.

The Minister also introduced the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), another flagship initiative of the Ministry focused on improving the employability of young Nigerians and bridging the gap between skills training and employment opportunities.

“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 said.

Onyejeocha commended the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with the Nigerian government through the Young Africa Works strategy, which has supported job creation, entrepreneurship, and skills development for thousands of young Nigerians over the past six years.

She noted that the Foundation’s efforts align with the government’s commitment to transforming skills into sustainable employment, emphasizing that achieving decent and productive work requires collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, development partners, and civil society.

“Building an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for work requires collective effort,” she stated. “We invite partners to collaborate with us in driving job access through these platforms and accelerating economic outcomes across Nigeria’s labour ecosystem.”

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the Renewed Hope vision, Onyejeocha assured that the Federal Government would continue to pursue policies that promote job creation, social inclusion, and economic stability.

“The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment stands ready to continue working with the Mastercard Foundation and all stakeholders to build a future where work is dignified, inclusive, and transformative,” she concluded.