Federal Government Launches Initiative To Address Joblessness
The Minister of Labour, Employment, and Productivity, Muhammed Dingyadi, has outlined the ministry’s strategic policy direction, emphasizing job creation and the promotion of industrial peace and harmony. Speaking on Wednesday, Dingyadi highlighted the ministry’s role in facilitating employment opportunities and ensuring a sustainable, skilled workforce to support Nigeria’s economic development.
Job Creation Under Renewed Hope Agenda
Dingyadi reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling unemployment and underemployment, which are central to the Renewed Hope Agenda. While noting that the ministry itself does not offer jobs, Dingyadi stressed its focus on creating policies and programmes that enable job creation in both the public and private sectors.
To this end, the ministry is set to launch the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), which aims to train and equip 2.5 million Nigerians annually over the next four years. The initiative will focus on building skills for the green and digital economies, fostering innovation, and preparing a workforce ready to lead in a sustainable future.
Green and Digital Skills for a Sustainable Economy
Dingyadi underscored the growing demand for green and digital skills in industries like energy and agriculture. “The green economy raises the demand for sustainable skills,” he said, adding that the ministry’s roadmap for the future of work in Nigeria is encapsulated in the theme of the Abuja Job Fair 2024: ‘Empowering the Nigerian Workforce with Green and Digital Skills.’
Promoting Industrial Peace and Harmony
The Minister also emphasized the importance of fostering industrial peace and harmony as a foundation for national growth. He announced the validation of the National Industrial Relations Policy, which seeks to address unhealthy labour practices, including child labour and irregular labour migration. “Our administration has zero tolerance for such practices,” he stated, pledging collaboration with local and international partners to combat these issues.
Commitment to Youth Empowerment
Acknowledging the persistent challenge of youth unemployment, Dingyadi called for innovative solutions that address the root causes of joblessness. “Millions of capable Nigerians face barriers to achieving their full potential,” he noted, describing the issue as a global phenomenon but one that requires tailored strategies for Nigeria.
Driving Sustainable Growth
Under Dingyadi’s leadership, the ministry is poised to consolidate on previous achievements while advancing the second leg of its mandate—employment creation. Committees have been established to oversee the successful launch of LEEP, which aims to provide the tools and opportunities necessary for Nigerians to thrive in the digital age.
A Vision for Nigeria’s Workforce
With a focus on skill development, innovation, and sustainability, Dingyadi’s agenda represents a significant step toward empowering Nigeria’s workforce and achieving the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. By aligning labour policies with economic realities, the ministry aims to drive long-term growth and development in Nigeria.
