BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, OCTOBER 22, 2025 | 05:25 PM
Since its launch in 2021, the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) has empowered over 13,000 youths with skills.
Vice President Kashim Shettima said the initiative will build on this progress and aims to place 100,000 young Nigerians in jobs within five years.
He made the announcement on Wednesday during the flag-off of NJFP 2.0 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Shettima said the program bridges the gap between learning and earning for graduates.
He explained that the initiative is supported by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to provide work experience, mentorship, and training.
Shettima said the government’s $220 million investment will strengthen the program and ensure it reaches all regions of the country.
He added that placements will focus on sectors driving economic growth, including agriculture, renewable energy, digital technology, manufacturing, and the creative industry.
Shettima said NJFP 2.0 will turn Nigeria’s demographic strength into a productive workforce.
Ayodele Olawande, minister of youth development, said the first phase trained over 13,000 youths.
Olawande added that NJFP 2.0 aims to scale up impact over the next five years.
Elsie Attafuah, resident representative of UNDP in Nigeria, said the program has already placed more than 40,000 Nigerians in economic sectors.
She added that NJFP continues to connect young people’s potential to opportunity.
Gauthier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria, said he supports integrating NJFP 2.0 into Nigeria’s governance agenda for sustainability.
Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank, urged stakeholders to provide opportunities that allow Nigerian graduates to compete with foreign talent.
Shettima concluded that with inclusive planning, strong partnerships, and sustainable funding, NJFP 2.0 will provide a foundation for a generation of skilled and employed young Nigerians.