In a major stride to tackle unemployment in Nigeria, the Federal Government, through the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), is equipping jobless citizens with the tools and capital to become self-sufficient — and even employers of labour.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Bauchi, the NDE’s Bauchi State Coordinator, Lawan Yaya, shed light on the various interventions making waves across the country.
“The federal government is seriously focusing on unemployed youths by rolling out different interventions to make them self-employed, at the very least,” Mr. Yaya said.
Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship Training
During a recent entrepreneurship training organized by the NDE, 100 participants were taken through the ropes of starting and managing businesses. Out of these, 40 beneficiaries received loan packages between ₦250,000 and ₦500,000, enabling them to launch meaningful ventures.
Agriculture as a Game-Changer
Mr. Yaya emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture, noting that the Rural Employment Promotion Department of the NDE trained 93 participants, each of whom received ₦100,000 in loan support.
“Some bought cows, others went into crop production, and many joined the agricultural value chain,” he explained. “Many of them have already employed others — becoming job creators in their own right.”
Some participants who previously benefited from the Extended Special Public Works programme — where each person received ₦60,000 — came together, formed a cooperative, and pooled funds to invest in livestock.
“After three months, they slaughtered the cows and reinvested the profits as seed capital into small businesses across their communities,” Mr. Yaya added.
Creating Real Impact
According to Mr. Yaya, the Federal Government’s interventions are not just theoretical — they are already changing lives. He referenced a recent Industrial Training Fund event where he met young entrepreneurs who had accessed government-backed loans and were now running businesses and employing staff.
Strong Financial Partnerships
The NDE isn’t working alone. Mr. Yaya mentioned institutions like the NIRSAL Microfinance Bank, operated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Bank of Agriculture as key partners.
“Some of our trainees who couldn’t access loans directly from the NDE were linked to these banks and are now securing funds to start or grow their ventures,” he noted.
A Call to Action
To all beneficiaries, Mr. Yaya had one clear message: make the most of the opportunity.
“Don’t let these interventions go to waste. These programs are life-changing if approached with seriousness and commitment.”
✅ Key Takeaways
- The Federal Government, through the NDE, is empowering unemployed Nigerians with training and financial support.
- 40 beneficiaries received up to ₦500,000 in loans to start businesses after an entrepreneurship training.
- 93 participants got ₦100,000 each to venture into agriculture.
- Beneficiaries are forming cooperatives, investing together, and building sustainable businesses.
- Partners like NIRSAL Microfinance Bank and the Bank of Agriculture are extending additional support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
- The program is already yielding results, with several beneficiaries becoming employers of labour.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the National Directorate of Employment (NDE)?
The NDE is a government agency focused on reducing unemployment in Nigeria by providing training, skills development, and financial support to job seekers.
How can I benefit from NDE programs?
You can visit your state NDE office or check the official NDE website for ongoing programs, application requirements, and training schedules.
Are loans from the NDE interest-free?
Loan terms vary. Some are subsidized, while others are provided in partnership with microfinance banks with flexible repayment options.
Can cooperatives apply for NDE loans?
Yes. Group efforts, especially in agriculture and rural development, are encouraged and often have better access to funding and support.
Is NIRSAL Microfinance Bank the same as NDE?
No. NIRSAL MFB is a financial institution under the CBN, while NDE is an employment-oriented federal agency. However, they collaborate to support the same beneficiaries.
