NJFP, EU, UNDP Inject N352.88m Into Delta Economy Through Direct Stipends To 419 Fellows

The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), backed by the European Union (EU) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has contributed N352.88 million to the Delta State economy, offering monthly stipends to 419 Fellows across 130 host organizations. The NJFP, an initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria, aims to provide young graduates with early career opportunities and connect them to structured workplace experiences.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Delivery and Coordination, Akubo Adegbe, highlighted that the one-year mentorship programme was designed to bridge the gap between the skills demanded by employers and those possessed by young people. The next phase of the NJFP focuses on sustainability, exploring ways to enhance the program and better address workforce needs in Delta's businesses and priority industries.

Dr. Weyinmi Eribo, Private Sector Engagement Lead at UNDP, revealed that Fellows have been placed in sectors such as education, technology, business management, agriculture, and healthcare, with opportunities in maritime, logistics, and oil and gas services. The NJFP operates through two pathways: retainership and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Eribo emphasized the importance of co-financing, resource mobilization, connecting Fellows to state-led economic and development programs, and the need for private sector organizations to absorb talent into their workforce. The EU Delegation to Nigeria, alongside the Office of the Vice-President and UNDP, visited Delta State to assess the program's impact firsthand.

Adegbe underscored the need for the EU's support, which has contributed €44 million to establish a national platform connecting young graduates with practical workplace experiences and skills development. The Delta State visit aims to examine what works, lessons learned, and the requirements for future government, business, and partner collaboration to ensure the NJFP's long-term success.