The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, inaugurated the inaugural Kaduna Career Fair, a two-day event aimed at providing job placements and employment opportunities to over 1,500 young individuals in the state. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the state government and Jobberman, Nigeria’s leading recruitment platform connecting job seekers and employers through its online portal.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Balarabe emphasized the significance of this endeavour in addressing the prevailing unemployment challenges within the state. She expressed concern over the increasing threat of unemployment and poverty to national security, citing the State’s Bureau of Statistics findings, which reveal that a staggering 86 per cent of the state’s population lives below the national poverty line. Dr Balarabe affirmed the government’s resolve under the leadership of Gov. Uba Sani to reshape this narrative.
Highlighting the importance of human capital, Dr Balarabe stressed the administration’s commitment to providing proper education and healthcare to equip the youth with employable skills and entrepreneurial capabilities.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of Jobberman Nigeria, Ahmed Alaga, described the gathering as a pivotal moment where aspirations converge with opportunities, leading to the realization of career goals. He underscored the platform’s objective to facilitate talent development and connect prospective candidates with potential employers.
Alaga also drew attention to the alarming levels of youth unemployment in the country, calling for unified action and innovative solutions to address this pressing issue. He emphasized the urgency of tackling the challenge, especially in light of the projected doubling of the country’s population by 2050.
Emphasizing the event’s significance, Alaga stressed its role as a nurturing ground for ambitions, a platform for forging connections, and a gateway for career progression. He highlighted how the career fair enables job seekers and working professionals to network with leading companies, glean insights from industry experts, and explore tailored career opportunities.
Patience Fakai, the Commissioner for Business Innovations, and Technology also commended the initiative, labeling it as an interactive forum that enriches knowledge for personal and managerial development. She assured the youths of the immense benefits they stand to gain from participating in such events, which serve as a stepping stone into gainful employment. Furthermore, Fakai pledged the ministry’s commitment to maintaining a comprehensive database of applicants to ensure continual matching with future opportunities.
Through this partnership, the Kaduna State Government, alongside Jobberman, is taking proactive steps to combat unemployment and empower the youth, ultimately fostering a more prosperous and secure future for the state.
