By Joan Nwagwu
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Youth Development and Sapphital Limited for skills development, job placement and entrepreneurship.
Mrs Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment said this during the signing of the MOU on Tuesday in Abuja.
Onyejeocha said that the signing was under the Renewed Hope Agenda, to strengthen the Nigeria’s workforce and expand job opportunities in the country.
According to her, today’s MOU between the Federal Ministry of LaboUr and Employment and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development marks a significant step in that direction.
“Through LEEP platform, we are creating pathways for skills development, job placement, and entrepreneurship.
“This collaboration ensures that workers across sectors can access meaningful employment and contribute to national growth.
“As we move forward, we remain dedicated to advancing employment opportunities, improving working conditions, and building a resilient and thriving labor force.
“Together, we are collaborating to create jobs and economic opportunities for all Nigerians,”she said.
Also, Mr Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development said, the siging of the MOU is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu for the well-being of Nigerians.
“It is a commitment to deliver the transformation and opportunities to the youths and the people of this country.
“Today the signing of the MOU between the two ministries indicates the seriousness of this government, to empower the people,”he said.
Olawande said that the aim of the Ministry of Youth Development was to push in order for the unemployment rate to be reduced the in country.
He therefore said that the signing of the MOU was an important partnership and efforts by the ministry to reduce the unemployment rate.
He further said the Ministry of Labour and Employment through the entrepreneurship programme LEEP would soon be launched by President Bola Tinubu and that it would set a new standard in youth employment.
According to him, the programme will create a pathway for skills development, job placement and entrepreneurial growth. This partnership is all about the actions, not just the promise.
“We will be integrating the vocational training and mentorship programme. We are assuring Nigerians youths that we want to give skills and also to upscale their skills.
“This is in order for them to excelled in today competitiveness of the economic.
“Also, this initiative will certainly prepare our young people for jobs and inspire them to become more creative in job creation, driving innovation and economic growth.
“As we are signing this MOU today, let us reaffirmed our collective dedication that we are ready to collaborate with all Ministry. Agencies and Parastals (MDAs) in reducing unemployment in the country,” he said.