By Mariam Aligbeh
The Federal Government has deployed 39 skilled artisans from Benue State to Belarus under its international job placement programme aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting safe labour migration.
The announcement was made on Monday in Abuja during a send-off ceremony organised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said the initiative—the first of its kind—reflects the government’s commitment to creating global employment opportunities for Nigerians.
The programme is a collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Benue State Government, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), the Benue State Bureau of Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, and Enhanced Entrepreneurs Belarus Nig. Co. Ltd.
Onyejeocha said the deployment aligns with Nigeria’s objective of promoting safe, structured labour migration while enhancing national competitiveness in the global job market.
“This ceremony is more than a send-off—it affirms our shared resolve to build a labour ecosystem that allows Nigerians not just to work, but to excel,” she said.
The minister urged the artisans to uphold professionalism, honour their contracts, and represent Nigeria positively while working abroad.
The Director-General of the NDE, Mr. Silas Agara, explained that the initiative, launched in 2019, has opened employment opportunities for Nigerian artisans in Belarus’ construction sector and provides a safe alternative to irregular migration.
“We are collectively declaring that young Nigerians no longer need to risk the Sahara Desert or the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. All they need are skills,” Agara said.
He also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State for sponsoring the 39 artisans, describing them as worthy ambassadors of both the state and the nation.
Mr Charles Adzo, Chief Executive Officer of Enhanced Entrepreneurs Belarus Nig. Co. Ltd, revealed that each artisan would remit ₦300,000 monthly to support their families and contribute to a revolving fund for future beneficiaries. He said the arrangement would sustain the initiative and stimulate local economic growth in Benue State.
