The Federal Government has announced plans to create at least 20,000 jobs annually through the launch of the second phase of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP 2.0), designed to connect talented graduates with practical work experience, training, and mentorship opportunities.
Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this during the inauguration of the NJFP 2.0 Project Steering Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He explained that the programme seeks to close the gap between learning and earning by helping thousands of qualified graduates transition into the workforce.
According to Shettima, the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s youthful population into an engine of economic growth. “When government provides structure, partnership, and purpose, young Nigerians rise to the occasion,” he stated.
He emphasised that NJFP 2.0 is a fully Nigerian-driven programme, aligned with national priorities, and urged committee members to strengthen coordination among institutions to ensure accountability and measurable results.
Encouraging members to focus on meaningful outcomes, the Vice President said the success of NJFP should be assessed by the real impact on young people’s lives. He stressed the need for inclusivity, ensuring that every region and social group benefits from the initiative, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, digital technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, and the creative industries.
European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Gautier Mignot, expressed confidence that NJFP 2.0 would significantly improve the lives of Nigerian youths, assuring that the EU’s continued support would help achieve the programme’s goals. Similarly, the UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah, commended the initiative, describing it as part of a broader national and continental effort to build an ecosystem that generates employment opportunities. She praised Vice President Shettima for his leadership, noting that young Nigerians need investment and an enabling environment to apply their talents effectively.
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, said NJFP 2.0 builds on the achievements of the first phase while adapting to current economic realities. He added that the government aims to “sustain the deployment of at least 20,000 fellows annually” and place a minimum of 24,000 fellows in the next 10 months with EU funding support.
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme, launched in 2022, is coordinated by the Office of the Vice President, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and funded by the European Union (EU). It has so far empowered more than 14,000 young Nigerians through 12-month paid fellowships designed to enhance employability, build confidence, and provide lasting career opportunities.