Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of the Bola Tinubu administration to reversing Nigeria’s rising unemployment rate and improving labour force participation.
He made this statement during the weekend at the launch of the Nasarawa State Human Capital Development Strategy Document & Gender Transformative Human Capital Development Policy Framework in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
During the event, Vice President Shettima emphasized the administration’s focus on building an environment where Nigerians can thrive and develop skills that are globally competitive.
He highlighted the Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme as a key instrument in reshaping the nation’s socio-economic landscape and reversing negative trends in employment. According to him, this program is designed to transform Nigeria into a society where opportunities abound, countering the impression of an unfavourable economic environment that has contributed to rising joblessness.
“The President Bola Tinubu administration is committed to reversing Nigeria’s unemployment challenges. Our aim is to ensure that every Nigerian is equipped with skills that meet global standards, ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey towards progress,” Shettima stated.
He reiterated that the administration’s vision aligns with fostering socio-economic growth, expanding opportunities for Nigeria’s youth, and providing them with the tools necessary to succeed in an increasingly competitive world. By focusing on skills development and employment opportunities, the administration aims to create a workforce capable of driving the country’s economic development and reducing dependency on foreign talent.
Rukaiya El-Rufai, Special Adviser to the President on the National Economic Council (NEC) and Climate Change, also spoke at the event, shedding light on the origins and objectives of the National Human Capital Development Programme.
She noted that the program, first introduced in 2018, is intended to address Nigeria’s poverty levels, spur socio-economic growth, and enhance human capital across the country.
El-Rufai explained that the newly launched Nasarawa State Human Capital Development Strategy and the Gender Transformative Human Capital Development Policy Framework are integral to achieving these goals, focusing on inclusive growth and reducing gender disparities. The framework aims to create policies that recognize and address the unique challenges faced by women, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities for advancement.
“Our mission with the National Human Capital Development Programme is to tackle poverty at its core, ensure sustainable economic development, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians. This new policy framework is a step forward in addressing the barriers that women face, and we are committed to building a society where everyone can realize their full potential,” El-Rufai stated.
