NDE unveils 30 skill programs for Nigerian youths – DG

By Mosunmola Ayobami
The Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Silas Agara, has announced that the agency has developed about 30 skill acquisition programs for Nigerian youths.
The former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State explained that these programs are tailored to suit the environmental and cultural needs of different states. Agara disclosed this during an interaction with journalists in Ilorin on Wednesday.
“We have about 30 skill acquisition programs currently being implemented. In most cases, what is offered in Kwara might differ from what is provided in Kano due to environmental or cultural differences. Our programs include digital skills, vocational training, fashion design, confectionery production, agriculture (such as goat farming and poultry), solar energy, and others designed to meet the diverse interests of Nigerian youths,” he said.
Agara further noted that upon assuming office, his administration focused on designing and implementing programs to fulfill the NDE’s mandate of creating employment opportunities for unemployed youths.
He said, “There was a misconception in the past, with some people believing they could secure government job placements through NDE. What we actually do is design and implement skill programs. Last year, we launched a program to accommodate at least ten youths per ward nationwide. This program is available to all Nigerians within the age bracket of 18–35, and applicants must register with their National Identification Number (NIN).”
He emphasized the importance of delivering results aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, stating, “We cannot give excuses. The youths demand tangible results, and we must act swiftly.”
Start-Up Support and Fraud Prevention
Agara revealed that the NDE provides start-up packages to trained youths through a partnership with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. The ministry provides unutilized start-up kits, which the NDE complements.
To address issues of multiple registrations and misuse of start-up kits, the directorate has introduced a portal to streamline registrations. “Previously, some individuals benefitted multiple times, disposing of start-up kits and moving from one agency to another, such as SMEDAN and ITF. The new portal helps curb such sharp practices. While we are not perfect, we have minimized these issues and made significant progress,” he said.
He added that the first phase of the Renewed Hope Job Initiative will conclude in February, with the second phase set to begin in April.
Community Market Initiative
Agara disclosed that the NDE has introduced community markets where trained youths can showcase and sell their products. “We are flagging off community markets in various states. For example, one is happening in Osun on Thursday. These markets provide opportunities for youths to gain patronage for their products,” he explained.
Job Centers and Internet Accessibility
To ensure inclusivity, Agara said the NDE has established job centers in all state capitals, where desk officers assist those without internet access to register. “For those in remote areas, we encourage them to seek nearby internet service providers. Our centers are always available to assist,” he added.
Inclusion of Persons Living with Disabilities
Agara stated that approximately 3,000 program slots have been reserved for persons living with disabilities, averaging 81 slots per state. While some states exceeded their allocations, others did not fully utilize theirs.
Commendation for Tinubu’s Reforms
The DG praised President Tinubu’s reforms in various sectors, including refineries, security, and education funding, assuring Nigerians that the current administration would benefit everyone.
He concluded by highlighting the structured monitoring of program implementation and reaffirmed that youths are allowed to choose the skills they want to learn, ensuring the programs are demand-driven.