FG Launches National Job Centre Project to Tackle Unemployment, Promote Decent Work

The Federal Government has launched the National Job Centre Project, a nationwide network of employability hubs designed to address unemployment and foster inclusive, dignified and transformative work for Nigerians.

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, announced the initiative during the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos on Wednesday.

According to her, the project is a central component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at connecting skilled Nigerians with real job opportunities while strengthening the country’s labour market infrastructure.

“The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system” Onyejeocha explained. “They are part of a national labour framework that empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently on the global stage.”

She also unveiled the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), a flagship initiative of the Ministry focused on enhancing youth employability and bridging the gap between training and employment.

“Our objective is not just to create jobs but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance” the Minister said.

Onyejeocha commended the Mastercard Foundation for its continued collaboration with Nigeria through its Young Africa Works strategy, which has driven entrepreneurship, job creation, and skills development for thousands of Nigerian youths over the past six years.

She noted that the Foundation’s partnership aligns with the government’s efforts to transform skills into sustainable livelihoods, stressing that achieving decent and productive work requires collaboration among government, the private sector, development partners and civil society.

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

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the President’s Renewed Hope vision, Onyejeocha assured that the government will continue to pursue policies that promote employment creation, social inclusion and economic resilience.

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