Government vocational program transitions thousands from trainees to entrepreneurs
ABUJA — The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has disbursed loans and business starter packs to 5,532 beneficiaries of its Renewed Hope Employment Initiative, marking a critical phase in the federal government’s job creation strategy.
At Wednesday’s resettlement ceremony, NDE Director-General Silas Agara revealed the initiative has now trained 33,692 unemployed Nigerians since its December 2024 launch. Participants – including youths, women, and persons with disabilities – received instruction in vocational skills, entrepreneurship, and agricultural practices nationwide.
“This resettlement transforms beneficiaries from job seekers to business owners,” Agara stated. “Our monitoring shows many will soon become employers themselves.”
Key program details:
- Training covered 774 electoral wards nationwide
- Recipients received both funding and equipment
- Focus sectors include agriculture, tech, and artisan trades
Minister of State for Labour Nkeiruka Onyejeocha acknowledged funding challenges preventing immediate support for all graduates, appealing for private sector partnerships.
“While we celebrate today’s beneficiaries, thousands more await resettlement,” Onyejeocha said. “We invite corporations and philanthropists to join this empowerment drive.”
The initiative forms part of the administration’s broader strategy to combat Nigeria’s 33% unemployment rate through practical skills development rather than direct government employment.
By the Numbers:
- 33,692 Nigerians trained to date
- 5,532 businesses launched in current phase
- 100% geographic coverage across wards
- 30% beneficiaries are persons with disabilities
