The Federal Government has unveiled the National Job Centre Project, a nationwide network of employability hubs aimed at linking skilled Nigerians to job opportunities and strengthening the country’s labour market system.

In a statement by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Minister of State, Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, announced the initiative during the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening held in Lagos on Wednesday.

The project supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to promote dignified, inclusive, and transformative work for all Nigerians.

Onyejeocha explained that the National Job Centres are designed to operate as employability hubs across the country, integrating technology, data, and career support services to strengthen Nigeria’s job placement and matching systems.

“The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system. They form part of a national labour framework that empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently on the global stage,” she said.

Alongside the Job Centre Project, the Minister also launched the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) — a flagship initiative designed to boost the employability of young Nigerians and facilitate a smoother transition from skills training to gainful employment.

“Through LEEP, we are enhancing the employability of young Nigerians and strengthening the bridge between training and jobs. Our goal is not just to create employment but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance,” she stated.

Rt. Hon. Onyejeocha called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, development partners, and civil society organizations, stressing that achieving decent and sustainable work for Nigerians depends on collective effort and shared commitment.

“Building an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for work requires collective effort. We invite partners to collaborate with us in driving job access through these platforms and accelerating economic outcomes across Nigeria’s labour ecosystem,” she noted.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive job creation, promote social inclusion, and enhance economic stability in alignment with the nation’s development priorities.

“The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment stands ready to continue working with the Mastercard Foundation and all stakeholders to build a future where work is dignified, inclusive, and transformative,” she concluded.

According to a recent survey by the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), over 46,000 jobseekers vied for available positions in 2024.

The study recorded 22,630 job openings—averaging around 2,837 per month, revealing the increasing pressure in Nigeria’s labour market and underscoring the need for more effective job-matching and skills development initiatives.