The Federal Government has joined hands with the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP) to create 12 million jobs for Nigerian youths. This new partnership is a significant step to help solve youth unemployment in the country.
A major step towards development and collaboration was taken on February 5, 2025, when the Nigerian government, along with key civil society organizations and international development partners, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This MoU outlines joint efforts to address national challenges and implement impactful solutions. The partnership was formally introduced to the public on March 6, 2025, signaling a united commitment to long-term progress and cooperation.
Reason Behind the Name Change
The initiative was initially launched as the Nigerian Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalisation Programme (NIYEEDEP). However, to make it more relatable and appealing to young Nigerians, the Federal Government renamed it the Youth Engagement and Inclusion for Development and Empowerment Programme (YEIDEP).
According to Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, the new name was carefully selected to promote a stronger sense of belonging and ownership among Nigerian youths. This strategic change aims to motivate young people to take active roles in the programme and feel personally invested in its success.
Detailed Goals of YEIDEP
The primary objective of YEIDEP is to reduce youth unemployment in Nigeria by transforming young people into self-reliant entrepreneurs and job creators. The programme tackles key issues such as poverty, insecurity, and social instability by offering hands-on skills training, business development support, and access to financial resources.
According to the government, more than two million Nigerian youths have already registered for the initiative. With an ambitious goal of empowering 20 million youths over the next two years—particularly in agriculture, food production, and small-scale enterprises—YEIDEP is designed to drive massive job creation and promote long-term economic growth across the country.
Core Areas of Focus
YEIDEP will cover several key areas to meet the specific needs of Nigerian youths:
- Agriculture (Youth Farmers’ Cooperative Scheme): Encourages young Nigerians to enter agriculture by forming cooperatives, providing training, and access to farming resources. It aims to improve food production and ensure stable incomes for young farmers.
- Technology (Tech4Jobs): Prepares young people with technology skills for tech sector jobs or to start their own tech businesses, boosting digital literacy and innovation.
- Creative Arts (Arts4Money): Supports creative youths through training, funding, and platforms to market their art, music, films, and crafts, ensuring a sustainable income.
- Vocational Skills (Skills2Job): Offers practical training in trades and crafts, matching market demands to ensure youths have relevant skills for employment.
- Food Security (Food4All Initiative): Enhances food production methods and capacity to reduce hunger and poverty. This initiative empowers youths involved in farming and food production.
Strong Support from Partners
More than two million youths have registered, highlighting strong early interest. Comrade Kennedy Iyere, a coordinator of the initiative, emphasized its importance for Nigeria’s economic growth, national security, and social stability.
Iyere explained clearly that YEIDEP is critical for Nigeria’s overall economic health and stability.
Young Nigerians interested in participating can easily register through the official website. Banks like Fidelity Bank, Access Bank, and First Bank are supporting participants by providing necessary financial services and resources.
Expected Impact on Nigeria
YEIDEP aims to create millions of new jobs, significantly reducing youth unemployment rates and boosting economic activity. The Federal Government believes this initiative will improve the lives of young Nigerians, directly tackling poverty and instability.
By equipping youths with valuable skills and opportunities, YEIDEP will help build a stronger, safer, and economically stable Nigeria.