The Honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Barr. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, on Thursday delivered a keynote address at the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Special Day at the 44th Kano International Trade Fair.
In her address, the Minister highlighted the significance of the trade fair within the context of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a diversified and sustainable Nigerian economy.
She noted that the President’s recent global engagements, including the G-20 Compact with Africa (CwA) Conference, demonstrate his commitment to attracting foreign direct investments and fostering economic growth beyond oil.
Addressing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, the Minister emphasised the government’s efforts to mitigate the impact of petrol subsidy removal. These include the N35,000 wage increase for civil servants, the deployment of N100 billion worth of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) power buses nationwide, and the signing of five executive orders aimed at improving business conditions.
Minister Onyejeocha also pointed to the inauguration of a large-scale conditional cash transfer program targeting 15 million households across the country. This program, coupled with efforts to address inherited debts and reduce tax burdens, demonstrates the administration’s commitment to alleviating poverty and transforming the national economy.
Praising the organizers of the trade fair for 
choosing the theme “Economic Diversification: Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development,” the Minister emphasized its alignment with the government’s economic agenda. She noted the ongoing dialogue with local and foreign investors to address concerns regarding multiple taxation and other investment barriers.
The Minister also highlighted key initiatives aimed at diversifying the economy, including:
Announcing the development of a five-year NDE roadmap within the framework of the “Renewed Hope” agenda, Minister Onyejeocha emphasized the focus on skills acquisition and development for youth and women, with the aim of empowering the unemployed and stimulating economic activity.
Expressing appreciation to the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) for facilitating the exchange of ideas among local and international businesses, the Minister commended the NDE-sponsored entrepreneurs showcasing their products and services at the trade fair. She encouraged unemployed youth and graduates to emulate these entrepreneurs and contribute to self-employment and economic growth.
Onyejeocha expressed gratitude to the Kano State government and its people for their support.
Emameh Gabriel,
Special Adviser (Media) to the Honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment
7/12/2023
