Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know:
- LEEP aims to partner with other government bodies and private sector to create jobs.
- The goal is to create at least 2.5 million sustainable jobs in two years.
- The government wants to use LEEP to gather real-time data on the job market.
LEEP: Not Just Another Government Programme?
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, made it clear at the programme’s launch in Abuja: LEEP is all about partnership and coordination. It’s designed to bring together government organizations, financial institutions, and private businesses.
What’s the Big Idea Behind LEEP?
LEEP has a few key goals:
- Expand access to steady jobs.
- Equip Nigerians with skills that match industry needs.
- Encourage entrepreneurship and diversify the economy.
- Gather up-to-date information on the job market.
A Shift in Focus for the Ministry
The Minister explained that the Ministry of Labour and Employment wants to be seen as more than just a mediator. They want to be a driving force for job creation, a source of information on the job market, and a catalyst for economic growth. They’re not just there to settle disputes; they want to create opportunities and empower citizens.
Tackling Unemployment Head-On
Onyejeocha emphasized that unemployment isn’t just a number; it’s a serious threat to Nigeria’s future. LEEP aims to directly and indirectly create at least 2.5 million sustainable jobs within two years. This isn’t just a programme; it’s a fundamental change in how the Ministry operates.
Who Benefits from LEEP?
While LEEP prioritizes youth, women, and people with disabilities, the Minister stated that it’s for every Nigerian who can contribute to the nation’s development. The ministry wants to serve workers in every sector, from informal markets to corporate boardrooms.
Working with Industry Leaders
The ministry is already collaborating with industry leaders, employer groups, and international partners. They also plan to tap into the expertise of Nigerians living abroad through a diaspora skills database.
Connecting Job Seekers and Employers
LEEP includes an integrated digital platform to connect job seekers and employers in real-time. It also provides training in vocational and digital skills to meet the demands of the modern economy.
Government’s Commitment to Job Creation
Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to delivering the benefits of democracy and good governance to Nigerians. He acknowledged that unemployment is a major global issue with far-reaching consequences.
Addressing the Root Causes of Unemployment
Dingyadi pointed out that unemployment in Nigeria is caused by factors such as economic instability, inadequate education, and a challenging business environment. The government is developing policies to address these issues, recognizing that skills development and entrepreneurship are crucial for solving unemployment.
Additional Information
Nigeria has a large informal sector, which employs a significant portion of the population. However, these jobs often lack security and benefits. LEEP could potentially help to formalize some of these jobs and provide workers with better protections.
Furthermore, the Nigerian government is investing in various sectors to create more job opportunities, including agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. The success of LEEP will depend on how well it aligns with these broader economic development efforts.
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