The Federal Government has launched the National Job Centre Project, a nationwide network of employability hubs designed to connect trained Nigerians to real job opportunities and strengthen the country’s labour market infrastructure.
Announcing the initiative, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said it reflects the government’s commitment to promoting dignified, inclusive, and transformative work in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tósìn Olúwalówò, the minister spoke at the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos.
“The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system. They form part of a national labour framework that empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently on the global stage,” Onyejeocha said.
She also unveiled the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) a flagship initiative designed to improve youth employability and bridge the gap between training and job access.
“Our goal is not just to create employment but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance,” she added.
Onyejeocha commended the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership through the Young Africa Works strategy, noting that it has empowered thousands of young Nigerians with practical skills, jobs, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“Over the past six years, your partnerships have not only provided skills but opened pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship, and hope for thousands across Nigeria,” she said.
The minister stressed that achieving decent and sustainable work requires collaboration among all stakeholders, including government, the private sector, and development partners.
“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.
Onyejeocha reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to partnerships that promote employment creation, social inclusion, and economic stability.
Earlier, she revealed that through LEEP, the government aims to create 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs annually, including through its Digital Nomads pillar, which will train young Nigerians to leverage digital skills for global remote work opportunities.
