The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has launched the second phase of its nationwide training programme, targeting 41,307 participants as part of efforts to tackle unemployment in Nigeria.

The initiative, implemented under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI), draws beneficiaries from all 8,809 electoral wards across the country, with a minimum of four participants per ward.

It follows the first phase of the programme, which successfully trained 32,692 Nigerians, many of whom received loans, starter packs, or access to credit facilities.

FG launches second phase of NDE training

Speaking at the Abuja flag-off, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to creating decent jobs as a foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth.

He explained that the programme is designed to prepare youths, women, and vulnerable groups with relevant skills to compete in both local and international job markets.

Akume said:

“The Renewed Hope Employment Initiative has been designed to equip our youth, women, and vulnerable groups with practical tools to navigate a fast-changing global economy.”

The Director-General of the NDE, Dr. Silas Agara, said the initiative is designed to improve employability, promote small businesses, strengthen agricultural output, and create temporary job opportunities.

He added that in the first phase, 5,532 participants received starter packs and loans, while others were connected to financial institutions for credit support.

Agara stated:

“In this second phase, the NDE will train 41,307 persons in over 30 skill sets, ranging from vocational and entrepreneurial to agricultural, ICT, and public works.”

He noted that the registration process has been fully digitised to improve efficiency, inclusivity, and transparency.

Agara also highlighted that beyond training, the programme aims to boost employability, strengthen small businesses, improve agricultural productivity, and provide short-term jobs.

Renewed Hope Initiative targets women, youth

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, said the RHEI reflects President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places employment creation, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth at the centre of government policy.

Supporting this view, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha stressed that the programme is structured to reach even remote communities, uplift vulnerable groups, and deliver measurable impact.

Onyejeocha said:

“At the end of this training, complemented with starter packs and financial support, we expect the creation of direct and indirect jobs across the 36 states and the FCT.”