The National Productivity Centre (NPC) in Nigeria has announced a bold initiative to create one million jobs without relying on government funding. This plan was revealed by the newly appointed Director-General of the NPC, Mr. Baffa Dan’agundi, during a recent visit to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment in Abuja.
According to a statement by Mrs. Patience Onuobia, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the initiative aims to boost employment through entrepreneurship support, skills development, and investment in high-growth sectors. Mr. Dan’agundi emphasized that the NPC is committed to achieving this goal independently and requested the minister’s assistance in securing presidential approval for the project.
“With the President’s approval, we can create one million jobs for Nigerians without relying on government funds. This initiative will be groundbreaking and will have a lasting impact. I am committed to making it a reality and believe that with your support, we can achieve these goals for the benefit of our country,” Dan’agundi stated.
The Director-General expressed his dedication to carrying out his responsibilities with excellence and thanked the President for his appointment.
In response, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, praised the NPC’s innovative approach to job creation and assured the government’s support for creative solutions to unemployment. She highlighted that the NPC’s plan aligns with the ministry’s goal of creating 2.5 million jobs through the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme.
“When I announced the Labour Ministry’s goal of 2.5 million jobs in a year, some were sceptical. With your initiative to create one million jobs, I am confident we will surpass that target. I am glad you are funding this without relying on government resources, and I offer my full support,” Onyejeocha remarked.
She also expressed her confidence in Mr. Dan’agundi’s abilities, citing his exceptional performance during the 2023 election as a testament to his productivity.
This initiative represents a significant step toward reducing unemployment and poverty in Nigeria, with the NPC leading the charge in innovative job creation.
