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Senate reviews bill on unemployment benefits program Senator Salisu further stated that the bill aims to compile a database of jobless Nigerian youth, especially graduates, categorized by their fields of study, and to set up a structure to oversee the allocation of part-time work for these individuals as they seek permanent employment |
The Senate has approved a bill for the creation of a National Internship and Unemployment Benefits Program this Wednesday.
The bill underwent a second reading following a briefing by its proponent, Senator Shuaib Salisu (APC, Ogun Central). He clarified that the legislation is designed to provide unemployed Nigerian graduates with part-time employment opportunities to gain work experience and receive stipends.
Senator Salisu further stated that the bill aims to compile a database of jobless Nigerian youth, especially graduates, categorized by their fields of study, and to set up a structure to oversee the allocation of part-time work for these individuals as they seek permanent employment.
He suggested that once operational, the program would offer optimism to graduates and facilitate the acquisition of practical experience prior to obtaining permanent jobs.
He contended that the program could mitigate the security risks and criminal behavior stemming from joblessness.
The senator recognized the efforts of existing entities like the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and the Industrial Trust Fund (ITF), but remarked that their outreach to the intended recipients has been insufficient.
Senator Salisu is of the opinion that the program, with its comprehensive database, will more efficiently tailor aid to those it serves.
While the majority of senators who spoke were in favor of the bill, Senator Ahmed Wadada (SDP, Nasarawa West) expressed skepticism about the bill's capacity to resolve unemployment issues.
Senator Wadada suggested that the priority should be on fostering a conducive business environment that allows the private sector to flourish and generate employment, rather than on providing benefits to the jobless.
He emphasized the importance of creating a supportive business atmosphere, stating, "If the conditions are favorable enough for the emergence of up to 10 Dangotes, unemployment levels could be minimized significantly. The focus should always be on establishing the necessary supportive environment."
Following its approval for a second reading, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio directed the Senate Committee on Labour and Productivity to further refine the bill and submit a report in four weeks.
