The federal government has launched the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP), an initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment and equipping young people with essential skills for the future. Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Ibrahim, said the programme seeks to reduce youth unemployment by 20% in the next five years and achieve a 50% increase in youth-led enterprise.
“The key goals are to reduce youth unemployment by 20 per cent in the next five years and achieve a 50 per cent increase in youth-led enterprise,” Ms Ibrahim said. “With the right skills and training, our youth cannot only find employment but also become the driving force behind these sectors, creating a ripple effect of job opportunities.”
The government is committed to empowering youths with financial tools to succeed, beyond technical skills. “It is not enough to be skilled; we must ensure these young men and women have access to the capital they need to start their business,” Ms Ibrahim added.
The programme aims to equip over five million youths with employable skills and foster entrepreneurship and innovation. A robust monitoring and evaluation framework will track progress and measure impact, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement.
Senior Special Adviser to the Minister, Aminu Abdullahi, called on private sector partners, government agencies, and international organisations to collaborate to ensure the NYSP’s success, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
