The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a major $220 million investment plan to tackle youth unemployment, in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), under the revamped Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP 2.0).
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who launched the new phase of the initiative on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, described the move as a strategic intervention to equip young Nigerians with meaningful work experience, mentorship, and practical training.
The goal, he said, is to “bridge the transition gap between learning and earning,” by connecting high-potential graduates to real-world job opportunities and structured career development.
“This programme is about converting our demographic strength into economic advantage,” the Vice President stated. “When government provides the right structure, partnerships, and purpose, Nigerian youths rise to the occasion.”
Embedding NJFP in National Development Plans
While highlighting the NJFP as a proudly Nigerian initiative shaped by local priorities, Shettima emphasized that the Tinubu administration is determined to integrate the programme into national planning and budget frameworks.
“This government will not just pay lip service, our financial commitment will reflect our belief in the programme’s transformative power. National ownership must also translate into national participation,” he said.
Shettima also called for active collaboration from private sector stakeholders, philanthropic organizations, and development partners to help build what he described as a “sustainable NJFP Basket Fund.”
“Our immediate target is to raise $220 million not as charity, but as a forward-looking investment in the potential of our youth,” he noted.
A Shared Responsibility
The Vice President challenged international development partners, including the EU and UNDP, to view the programme’s flag-off as a demonstration of collective responsibility in addressing youth unemployment.
“Our young people aren’t looking for handouts,” he said. “They’re asking for a fair system, one that rewards merit, values effort, and creates room to thrive. They’re ready to build, the question is: are we ready to back them?”
Shettima stressed that inclusivity and broad participation across public institutions, private enterprises, and civil society will be critical to the programme’s long-term success.
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme was first launched in 2021 to empower young graduates with work placements in both public and private sectors. The second phase (NJFP 2.0) expands on that mission, aligning it more closely with Nigeria’s economic and employment goals.
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