The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has launched a nationwide resettlement programme aimed at empowering over 5,500 trained youths and women with startup loans and business tools to establish sustainable ventures.
Announced on March 25, 2025, by NDE Director-General Silas Agara, the initiative spans all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), supporting beneficiaries of the directorate’s skills acquisition programmes.
This programme is a core component of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative, which has successfully trained 33,692 Nigerians, including youths, women, and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs), in areas such as:
- Business management
- Agriculture
- Public works
- Vocational skills
From Training to Self-Employment: Startup Loans and Essential Tools
To facilitate business establishment, selected participants are receiving:
Startup loans with a six-month moratorium and a 9% interest rate
Essential tools and equipment tailored to their respective trades
Two-year repayment plans to ensure financial stability
Read also: 51% of Nigerian startups struggle to secure funding — Report
State-by-State Impact of the Resettlement Programme
Bauchi State
Seven tailoring graduates received sewing machines worth ₦309,000 each.
The total repayment for each loan is ₦336,800, including interest.
Kogi State
107 unemployed persons were empowered under the 93,731 Jobs Creation Initiative.
State Coordinator Ilebaye Ochimana emphasized the importance of skill development in reducing unemployment.
Cross River State
261 beneficiaries received startup tools in Calabar.
Emeka Okoli, National Productivity Centre Coordinator, urged recipients to use the tools effectively.
Kwara State
266 beneficiaries received startup packs and business loans.
Amb. Ndanusa Usman, Commissioner for Youth Development, encouraged participants to maximize the opportunity.
State NDE Coordinator Kudabo Olufemi cautioned against selling the provided equipment.
Gombe State
120 youths, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), were resettled.
State NDE Coordinator Asmau Marwa highlighted the programme’s three pillars:
- Skills development
- Resettlement
- Job creation
Building a Sustainable Future for Nigerian Entrepreneurs
NDE’s commitment to tackling unemployment through structured skills training, mentorship, and financial support is creating a new generation of self-reliant entrepreneurs.
“This resettlement programme is designed to transform job seekers into business owners, reinforcing entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic growth in Nigeria.” — Silas Agara, NDE Director-General
With continued government support and access to startup resources, thousands of Nigerians are now equipped to contribute to job creation and economic sustainability.
