The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Nigerian youths through inclusive employment policies and skills development initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities across key sectors of the economy.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, stated this during the 10th anniversary celebration of the Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) held in Udu, Warri, in Delta State.
The event marked a decade of advocacy and empowerment initiatives by the organisation targeted at supporting unemployed youths across the country.
Represented by the Chief Labour Inspector at the Warri District Office and delegate of the State Controller of Labour, Mokena Ebi, the minister said government policies are designed to strengthen employability, encourage entrepreneurship and prepare young Nigerians to take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy.
According to him, the Federal Government is working to ensure that employment policies remain inclusive, forward looking and responsive to the demands of a rapidly changing global economy.
Dingyadi described youth unemployment as one of the most pressing socio economic challenges facing the country, but noted that it also presents an opportunity for national development.
He said Nigeria’s youthful population remains a valuable asset, describing young people as vibrant, creative, energetic and resilient.
The minister noted that programmes such as the Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Programme (YEEP) have created opportunities for young Nigerians through skills training, mentorship, job placements and financial support.
He disclosed that more than 10,000 youths have secured employment through the National Electronic Labour Exchange (NELEX) platform and other channels, while over ₦50 million has been disbursed in grants and equipment to support youth-led enterprises.
Dingyadi also highlighted other government initiatives including the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), the Skill-Up Artisan Programme (SUPA), the National Youth Talent Programme (NATEP) and the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), all aimed at boosting youth capacity and employment prospects.
The minister stressed the need for stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society organisations and youth groups to effectively address the unemployment challenge.
He urged young Nigerians to equip themselves with relevant digital and technological skills to remain competitive in the evolving global economy.
Dingyadi also commended SWUYN for its decade long advocacy and commitment to improving the welfare of unemployed youths across the country.
