The Lagos State Coordinator of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr. Ogungbemi Rufus Gbadebo, has applauded the state government’s plan to create 1,000 jobs through the Graduate Internship Placement Programme (GIPP), describing it as a positive step in addressing unemployment.
Speaking in an interview with Anchor News Online, Gbadebo said unemployment remains one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges, driving some young people into crime and poverty. He stressed that job creation is a responsibility shared by federal, state and local governments.
“Creating jobs is not meant for only one level of government. If 1,000 persons are engaged, it will bring relief to their families. Replicating this initiative nationwide will foster peace and stability,” he said.
He noted that while 1,000 jobs may appear small compared to Lagos’ large youth population, it is a strategic starting point.
“If you want to eat an elephant, you cut it bit by bit. For Lagos to conceive this idea, plan it and roll it out is commendable. One thousand is a good number for a start,” he said.
Gbadebo urged young people not to depend solely on government jobs but to take responsibility for their career growth through self-development and skill acquisition, highlighting free digital learning opportunities online.
“Young people should be accountable for their lives, improve themselves, and not blame the government or their parents. This generation has more opportunities than mine,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would have a ripple effect, as beneficiaries could in turn empower others. He assured that the NDE is committed to adapting to global employment trends by training in areas such as digital marketing and cloud computing.
“Our Director-General, Silas Ali Agara—whom we call the Digital DG—is focused on preparing Nigerians for global competitiveness,” Gbadebo added.
