The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiru Onyejeocha, has launched the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), a comprehensive initiative aimed at creating 2.5 million jobs and equipping Nigerians with vital skills. The official launch took place on April 15, 2025, in Abuja, marking a significant step towards addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth across the nation.
Ambitious Goals and Strategic Pillars
LEEP is designed as a transformative agenda for national workforce development, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, which prioritizes economic growth, job creation, and inclusive development. Onyejeocha emphasized that LEEP is not just a program but an “institutional shift,” positioning the Ministry of Labour and Employment to play a central role in training, upskilling, and connecting Nigerians with meaningful employment opportunities.
The initiative aims to provide inclusive access to opportunities for all Nigerians, focusing particularly on youths, women, and persons with disabilities. Key components include the LEEP Digital Academy for digital skills training, LEEP Job Fairs to connect job seekers with employers, and a dedicated online job portal aggregating labor market data and opportunities. Additionally, a Vocational and Entrepreneurship Programme will equip individuals with the skills needed for self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Onyejeocha stated, “With LEEP, we are setting a clear national target to directly and indirectly create at least 2.5 million sustainable jobs within two years.” She underscored the Ministry’s commitment to expanding access to employment, equipping Nigerians with industry-aligned skills, and stimulating economic diversification.
The launch event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and various stakeholders from the private sector and civil society. Shettima praised Onyejeocha’s leadership and called for collective action from all sectors to ensure the initiative’s success.
With the LEEP portal now live, Nigerians are encouraged to register and participate in the initiative. The success of LEEP is expected to mark the beginning of a transformative era for Nigeria’s labor force and contribute significantly to the nation’s sustainable economic development.
