Labor leaders urge government to create sustainable jobs as FG launches employment initiative
ABUJA — The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stark warning that rising unemployment is directly contributing to increased criminal activities like kidnapping and militancy across the nation. The labor body made the declaration during Tuesday’s launch of the federal government’s Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP).
Job Creation as National Security Solution
NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero emphasized that meaningful employment remains Nigeria’s most effective tool against social crises:
“People that are engaged, people that are working, will not think of other social crises. The level of militancy, the level of kidnapping will come to the barest level if we create jobs.”
Ajaero cautioned against creating precarious employment, stressing: “We need sustainable jobs, not casual jobs where the wages cannot take workers home at month’s end.”
Tinubu Administration’s Employment Push
Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled LEEP as part of President Bola Tinubu’s pledge to build “a Nigeria where workers attain their full potential.” The initiative aims to:
- Create 2.5 million jobs within two years
- Provide skills training for emerging sectors
- Leverage technology to connect employers with workers
- Target all economic sectors including the gig economy
“We are upskilling Nigerians for both available jobs and future opportunities,” Shettima stated, noting that “machines are replacing hands and AI is challenging intellects” in the evolving global workplace.
Multi-Stakeholder Approach Urged
Key highlights from the launch included:
- State Commitment: Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma pledged governors’ support for nationwide implementation
- Private Sector Role: VP Shettima called for collaboration with businesses, CSOs and global partners
- ILO Endorsement: UN agency praised Nigeria’s commitment to youth empowerment
Labor Minister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha warned that current unemployment statistics pose “a clear and imminent danger,” while NDE Director Silas Agara confirmed LEEP’s design to “decisively address unemployment in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
