Shettima launches NJFP initiative, aiming to equip Nigerian graduates with essential skills for employability
Abuja (EPICSTORIAN) – The Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of VP Shettima, has taken a major step in its ongoing efforts to address the country’s unemployment crisis.
On Monday, October 14, 2024, VP Shettima inaugurated the Steering Committee of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
This move, according to the Vice president, is part of the government’s broader employment strategy aimed at enhancing the employability of fresh graduates by equipping them with essential market-ready skills.
The NJFP, a government initiative implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and supported by the European Union (EU), focuses on tackling the high unemployment and underemployment rates in Nigeria.
By providing recent graduates with practical skills and mentorship, the programme aims to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world demands.
NJFP: A Catalyst for Youth Empowerment and Innovation
Speaking at the event, VP Shettima emphasized that the NJFP is not just an employment scheme, but a transformative initiative designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership among Nigerian youth. “The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme is more than just an employment initiative—it is a catalyst for broader engagement in youth-driven innovation, employability, and entrepreneurship,” said Shettima.
He stressed the importance of scaling up the programme to reach more young Nigerians while focusing on long-term sustainability and skill development.
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According to Shettima, such programmes are critical in equipping young people to become not only employees but also innovators and leaders in their respective fields.
VP Shettima Advice Urgency in Addressing Youth Unemployment
Acknowledging the growing concern of youth unemployment, the Vice President called for collective action from stakeholders and development partners.
He highlighted the potential risks of failing to address the issue, noting that prolonged unemployment or underemployment can severely hinder career prospects for young people.
“Unemployment remains a critical challenge for Nigeria, and youth unemployment is an even more pressing concern.
“We must act collectively to tackle this issue before it severely undermines our future,” Shettima warned, urging the government and its partners to prioritize youth-focused initiatives.
Government’s Commitment to Youth Development
The NJFP, which is directly coordinated by the Office of the Vice President, is a key part of the Tinubu administration’s broader focus on youth empowerment and human capital development.
Other related initiatives include the Human Capital Development (HCD) programme, Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE), and the Expanded MSME Clinics.
Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing the future of Nigerian youth, stating, “Nigeria’s future lies in the hands of our youth, and we must do everything within our power to secure their success.”
He also promised that the government would prioritize counterpart financing to ensure the NJFP is not only sustained but expanded.
Praise from Development Partners UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, commended the Nigerian government for its leadership in advancing youth development. She emphasized the importance of the NJFP in fostering home-grown talent and connecting young Nigerians with local opportunities. “Young Nigerians are demonstrating their capacity and ingenuity to transform not just their own lives but also those of their communities,” she said.
The European Union, a key partner in the NJFP, has provided €44 million in support of the programme. Massimo de Luca, EU Head of Cooperation in Nigeria, hailed the NJFP as a flagship initiative that aligns with the EU’s commitment to youth empowerment in Nigeria and globally.
Future Outlook and Expansion Plans
As part of the broader agenda to create 10 million jobs by 2027, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, stated that the NJFP complements the ministry’s own initiatives. Meanwhile, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, revealed that over 3,100 youths have already been trained under the NJFP, with plans to scale up in the near future.
With renewed support from the government, international partners, and private sector stakeholders, the NJFP is poised to continue making a significant impact in addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria, empowering thousands of young people with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
