Unemployment

For decades, our nation has grappled with the scourge of high unemployment, particularly among our youth, and data supports the bad news that it is destined to persist. The current administration seems lost, endlessly cycling through the same ineffective policies of its predecessors, offering no real solutions to this deep-rooted crisis.

My administration will not stand idle. We are poised to swiftly launch a comprehensive array of strategic measures aimed squarely at eradicating the high unemployment problem. We are committed to not just making promises but delivering results. Here are the concrete strategies we will deploy to achieve full employment:

Focus on Skills Development and Vocational Training: My administration will champion and partner with private and public institutions to implement programs that focus on skill development and vocational/technical training tailored to market needs. This will include partnerships with private companies and educational institutions to ensure that training programs align with the skills required in the job market, particularly in growing sectors like technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and services.

Prioritize Entrepreneurship and Small Business Support: My national blueprint for building entrepreneurial economy will encourage entrepreneurship by providing easier access to finance, business mentorship, and tax incentives for small businesses and startups. This will stimulate job creation and economic growth, particularly in underserved communities and among our youth.

Invest in Business Infrastructure: As mentioned in my Strategic Imperative on Infrastructure, my administration will increase investment in infrastructure, such as transportation, telecommunications, and energy to boost productivity, attract foreign and domestic investment, and create both direct and indirect employment opportunities in construction, maintenance, and other related industries.

Establish Targeted Job Creation Programs: My team will implement government-championed, business-led job creation programs in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and infrastructure, with an emphasis on inclusive hiring practices to reach underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

Provide Incentives for Private Sector Employment: My administration will offer attractive tax breaks or subsidies to companies that create jobs, especially in rural areas and sectors with high potential for growth. This could encourage the private sector to hire more workers.

Invest and Champion Digital Economy: One of my top strategic imperatives is to invest in the digital infrastructure and provide training programs to enable more Nigerians to participate in the growing digital and gig economy, including remote work opportunities that can reach a wider range of job seekers.

Support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs): My administration will strengthen support for MSMEs through easier access to credit, business development services, and market access. MSMEs will serve as significant employment drivers in the Nigerian economy, especially in states and LGAs.