The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a new paid internship program for young graduates, offering ₦150,000 monthly stipends for one year.
The initiative, known as the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), is designed to fight youth unemployment and boost productivity across the country.
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hadeja, announced the scheme in Abuja.
He described it as a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to Hadeja, the internship aims to empower fresh graduates with real-world experience in reputable organizations while bridging Nigeria’s growing unemployment gap.
Each selected fellow will earn ₦150,000 monthly during the 12-month program. The participants will be placed in both public and private sector offices to gain mentorship, professional skills, and hands-on training.
Hadeja said the NJFP is part of a long-term plan to improve human capital and create sustainable employment. “This initiative empowers youths directly and strengthens workforce capacity nationwide,” he said.
The official launch is scheduled for Wednesday at the State House Conference Centre, with Vice President Kashim Shettima expected to lead the event.
EU and UNDP Back the Programme
The NJFP is being implemented in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), two major global development partners.
The EU has pledged €44 million (₦70 billion) to support the program’s rollout, according to a report by the Daily Sun.
A UNDP representative also expressed confidence that the collaboration will expand employment opportunities and enhance Nigeria’s institutional growth.
Pathway to Permanent Jobs and Entrepreneurship
Officials say the NJFP will not only create temporary jobs but also open long-term career and business opportunities.
Organizations hosting the fellows will benefit from access to skilled, motivated workers, while participants will gain valuable experience that may lead to full-time roles or entrepreneurial ventures.
“At the end of the program, some organizations may retain fellows, while others may start their own businesses,” Hadeja added.
The Federal Government believes the NJFP represents a renewed hope for Nigeria’s youth — ensuring they are not left behind but equipped to lead the next phase of the country’s economic recovery.
Other Empowerment Initiatives
This comes as the government intensifies efforts to support small business owners. Earlier reports revealed that the government launched a ₦50,000 support scheme for artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs.
In addition, the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme will provide between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 to help street vendors, tailors, and food sellers grow their businesses.
The goal is to help Nigerians build self-sustaining ventures without facing the usual challenges of collateral or complex paperwork.
