A transformative initiative is set to combat Nigeria’s unemployment crisis head-on. Work Nigeria, a dynamic human resource consulting firm, has unveiled its ambitious plan to reintegrate one million Nigerians into the workforce in the upcoming year. This groundbreaking endeavor was revealed by the company’s Managing Director, Olufemi Oyebanjo, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.
Expressing profound concern over the alarming unemployment rate, particularly among the nation’s youth, Mr. Oyebanjo emphasized the company’s determination to reverse this trend and bolster Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“We have set our sights on a formidable objective: to facilitate the reemployment of one million Nigerians. Unemployment remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with the youth bearing the brunt of this challenge. It is our mission to overhaul this distressing scenario. I recall that at one point in 2021, Nigeria held the unenviable title of having the highest unemployment rate globally. These are the disheartening statistics we are resolute in overturning. Our aim is to assist individuals in securing employment, aligning them with suitable roles, providing on-the-job training, and curbing the ‘Japa syndrome’,” he affirmed.
Mr. Oyebanjo outlined the company’s strategic approach to combat unemployment, highlighting the implementation of an innovative ‘Catch Them Young’ program within universities. This pioneering initiative seeks to collaborate with federal, state, and private universities to foster the development and vocational readiness of students.
A pivotal component of the company’s roadmap is the launch of a pioneering Job Board in West Africa in January 2024. This platform will facilitate direct interaction between global employers and job seekers, effectively matching job opportunities with the requisite skills.
Furthermore, Work Nigeria plans to host virtual job fairs in partnership with universities. Mr. Oyebanjo underscored the importance of accommodating the demanding schedules of final-year students, ensuring they have access to valuable opportunities despite their academic commitments.
“We recognize that final-year students are often overwhelmed with projects, coursework, and other obligations. To address this, we will orchestrate a virtual job fair, where employers from around the world can engage with students. This platform will enable students to familiarize themselves with the expectations of top-tier companies, allowing them to proactively prepare for their transition into the workforce post-NYSC,” Mr. Oyebanjo affirmed.
This visionary initiative heralds a new era of proactive, inclusive, and impactful strategies in combating unemployment, underscoring Work Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s employment landscape.
News Agency of Nigeria
Kudos WorkNigeria. Can’t wait for the job board to be launched. Finally a company targeting unemployment in Nigeria