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ENUGU, Nigeria (NAN)- The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) recently announced the completion of a nationwide resettlement program for 5,532 beneficiaries who received training in various skills through its Renewed Hope Employment Initiative.
The director-general of NDE, Silas Agara, made this announcement on Sunday during the NDE Special Day at the ongoing 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, which has the theme: "Developing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector SMEs for Economic Advancement and Global Recognition." Agara was represented at the event by the director of public research and statistics at the NDE, Edmond Owuliri.
He explained that the initiative aims to provide unskilled and unemployed Nigerians with skills that are in demand, enabling them to become self-employed, generate wealth, and alleviate poverty.
He emphasized that this year's fair theme closely aligns with the NDE's mission and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Over the years, the agency has remained dedicated to job creation and empowering Nigerian citizens through various programs and initiatives. Agara highlighted some of the key programs that facilitate job creation, including the Small Scale Enterprises Programme, which encourages entrepreneurship and skills development, leading to self-reliance.
He also mentioned "The Rural Employment Promotion Programme," which creates employment opportunities in rural areas, thereby addressing poverty and inequality through sustainable agricultural practices.
He further described "The Special Public Works Programme," which carries out public works projects that generate jobs and boost local economies through infrastructural investments and temporary job offerings.
Additionally, "The Vocational Skills Development Programme" equips Nigerians with vocational skills, enhancing their employability and competitiveness
These initiatives have played a significant role in fostering economic growth, decreasing unemployment, and enhancing livelihoods across Nigeria.
Agara acknowledged the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving sustainable development, urging government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups to work alongside the NDE to foster the growth of SMEs.
"Together, we can build a more prosperous and inclusive economy that benefits all Nigerians," he stated. Earlier, Odeiga Jideonwo, president of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, praised the NDE for its efforts in supporting SMEs and providing employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
He also commended the agency for consistently using the fair to highlight its various services that Nigerians can access at no cost.
