The Federal Government has called for increased stakeholder collaboration to generate 2.5 million jobs for unemployed Nigerians through the newly launched Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP).
President Bola Tinubu made the appeal during the programme’s official launch on Tuesday in Abuja. The event was organised by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stressed the need to prepare the Nigerian workforce for a rapidly evolving job market, where artificial intelligence and automation are displacing traditional roles.
“LEEP is a well-considered response to a national challenge,” he said. “It goes beyond job creation. It aims to transform the workforce and prepare Nigerians for emerging global opportunities.”
The initiative targets all sectors of the economy, including the growing gig economy, and seeks to equip citizens with relevant, competitive skills.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who initiated the programme, said LEEP aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“LEEP is not just a programme; it signals an institutional shift. Our goal is to create at least 2.5 million sustainable jobs in two years while laying the foundation for long-term productivity,” she said.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, commended the initiative and urged a unified national approach to implementation.
NLC President Joe Ajaero, speaking on behalf of organised labour, said the union supports the programme fully, provided it is properly implemented. He emphasised the need to prioritise sustainable over casual employment.
