NDE to digitally empower over 21,000 Nigerians in second phase of job creation scheme

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has launched the second phase of the Renewed Hope Job Creation Programme, which will be entirely digital and target at least 21,000 Nigerians.

Speaking during a strategy meeting with state and zonal directors in Abuja, the Director-General of NDE, Silas Agara, explained that the new phase seeks to address challenges experienced during the first phase. Key among these were delays in stipend payments and a need to better tailor training to state-specific economic realities.

Agara said, “This phase is designed to resolve previous issues—particularly delays in stipends—and to better reflect local realities by aligning skills training with each state’s economic needs.”

Collaboration with NGOs and development partners

Agara confirmed that Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and development partners would play a central role by providing training and funding. He noted that the figure of 21,000 beneficiaries is a minimum, with the final number dependent on how states manage and deploy their resources.

“Banks and partners have shown interest in directly engaging with trained participants to assess and support their business plans based on individual needs and capabilities,” he added.

Building on phase one results

The first phase of the initiative began in December 2024. It focused on empowering over 93,000 unemployed Nigerians with vocational skills across 30 different sectors. Special efforts were made to include women, persons with disabilities, and older individuals. At least 40,000 participants received training in ICT and digital skills.

Each of Nigeria’s 8,809 electoral wards had a minimum of 10 participants during the first round.

The NDE says the second phase will build on these achievements by offering more targeted and sustainable employment opportunities, with stronger support from both public and private sector stakeholders.