The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has unveiled a five-year strategic plan aimed at boosting job creation, strengthening vocational training and modernising its 87 skills training centres across Nigeria.
The 2027–2031 plan seeks to improve employment services, strengthen labour-market information systems and align vocational training more closely with industry needs, as the agency moves to address gaps in skills development and employment opportunities.
Unveiling the plan in Abuja on Thursday, Silas Agara, NDE Director-General said the initiative would reposition the agency to respond more effectively to changing labour-market demands through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, enterprise development and strategic partnerships.
“The NDE is not merely unveiling a policy document but setting out a clear strategic direction for the next five years, reaffirming our institutional purpose and strengthening our commitment to creating employment opportunities, developing skills, promoting entrepreneurship and improving the livelihoods of Nigerians,” Agara said.
Agara said many of the Directorate’s 87 skills training centres required rehabilitation, upgraded equipment or a complete overhaul to improve training quality and relevance.
He added that the agency planned to harmonise its training curricula to establish uniform standards and ensure that programmes reflected the changing requirements of employers and industries.
However, he acknowledged that modernising the facilities and improving training delivery would require sustained support from the Federal Government, development partners and the private sector.
Beyond infrastructure and curriculum reforms, the NDE plans to deepen collaboration with employers, strengthen data-driven decision-making and expand post-training support.
The measures are intended to help programme beneficiaries secure employment, establish businesses and sustain their livelihoods after completing vocational training.
“The real test of this Plan begins after its launch,” Agara said, stressing the need for clear responsibilities, adequate funding, measurable targets and effective monitoring to ensure successful implementation.
