The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has partnered with the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) to launch a robust employability training program aimed at addressing the high unemployment rate among Nigerians, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This initiative, which began last week, seeks to empower over 150 unemployed individuals, focusing on youth and women, with essential soft skills, life skills, and vocational expertise.
The flag-off ceremony held at NDE’s FCT office in Kuduru, Bwari Area Council, was attended by various dignitaries, including Aliyu Abubakar, the Procurement Director representing the Director-General of NDE. Abubakar underscored the critical need to tackle unemployment among youths and women, emphasizing the program’s goal to equip participants with the skills and confidence necessary to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
“Our focus on soft skills, life skills, and vocational training will enhance their employability, entrepreneurial abilities, and overall self-reliance,” Abubakar stated. The initiative marks a significant step towards mitigating the rampant unemployment challenges facing the nation and fostering sustainable development.
Tolulope Olaya, Programme Component Manager for the Centre for Migration and Development of GIZ, highlighted the collaborative efforts with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and NDE. She explained, “Our primary goal is to enhance the employability of unemployed youth through soft skills training, enabling them to access job opportunities in the labor market.”
This partnership is not just a reaction to the unemployment crisis but a proactive measure to build a skilled workforce that can adapt to the changing demands of the labor market. By focusing on practical skills and real-world applications, the program aims to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Ifeoma Ezepue, Director of Special Public Works at NDE, emphasized the training’s practicality in preparing participants for job searches and interviews. “Our aim is to equip them with essential marketing skills to effectively present themselves to potential employers,” she asserted. This focus on practical skills is particularly relevant for graduates and school leavers who often struggle to transition from academic settings to professional environments.
Mr. Noble Chimereze, FCT Coordinator of NDE, stressed the transformative impact of the training on graduates’ employability. “This programme is crucial as it addresses gaps in basic job-seeking skills among recent graduates, such as CV writing and interview preparation. Our objective is to enhance their marketability and ensure their success in securing employment,” he said.
The NDE, established in 1986, has been pivotal in Nigeria’s employment sector, focusing on job creation, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and employment services. The agency’s interventions are geared towards promoting employment opportunities and reducing unemployment rates across the country.
Through the collaborative effort between NDE and GIZ, participants are set to gain practical skills that will not only empower them in the job market but also contribute to Nigeria’s socioeconomic development. The program reflects a commitment to equipping Nigeria’s workforce with the necessary tools for sustainable livelihoods and economic prosperity.
The significance of this program cannot be overstated. In a country where unemployment and underemployment remain critical issues, such initiatives provide a glimmer of hope for many. By targeting the youth and women, who are often the most vulnerable in the job market, the NDE and GIZ are addressing the root causes of unemployment and working towards a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
The NDE-GIZ employability training program is a laudable initiative that promises to make a tangible difference in the lives of many Nigerians. By providing the necessary skills and support, the program is paving the way for a more skilled, confident, and employable workforce, ultimately contributing to the nation’s growth and stability.
