600m new jobs needed by 2030, says FG

The Federal Government says an estimated 600 million new jobs will be needed by the year 2030 to addres the growth of the global working age population.

Sen. Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and Employment said this during the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Century and 60 years of ILO Anniversary on Wednesday in Abuja.

Ngige, represented by Mr Williams Alo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, said that approximately 40 million jobs would be needed annually to achieve this target.

According to him, it is internationally recognized that decent work is fundamental to sustainable development.

“It is estimated that over 600 million new jobs need to be created by the year 2030 that is approximately 40 million jobs annually to keep pace with the growth of the global working age population.

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“The importance of decent work in achieving sustainable development is highlighted by Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals which aims to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”.

“To this end, therefore, putting job creation at the heart of economic policy-making and development plans, will not only generate decent work opportunities but also more robust, inclusive and poverty-reducing growth.

“It is a virtuous circle that is as good for the economy as it is for people and one that drives sustainable development.

“I wish to inform you that in line with international best practice, decent work for all Nigerians is at the heart of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration,” he said.