The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, clarified on Thursday that his ministry’s mandate does not include providing jobs for Nigerians. Speaking at the annual conference of the Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja, Dingyadi emphasized that the ministry’s role is to create an enabling environment for employment rather than directly securing jobs.
“You will agree with me that the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment is never to give employment to people,” Dingyadi stated. While acknowledging Nigeria’s large youth population and the pressing need for gainful employment, he reiterated that direct job creation lies outside the ministry’s purview.
Dingyadi, who previously served as Minister of Police Affairs, explained, “Our primary focus is on creating a conducive atmosphere for job opportunities and ensuring productivity and sustainable investments.” He highlighted the ministry’s role in implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at economic recovery, minimum wage improvements, and strategic investments in human capital and infrastructure.
In the same event, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, urged Nigerians to remain patient despite the economic hardship caused by ongoing reforms. He assured that the measures, though painful, were already beginning to yield results.
“My job is to help Nigerians understand the necessity of these reforms,” Dare said. He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s leadership is guided by a long-term vision for economic recovery, driven by fiscal and monetary adjustments across various sectors, including oil, manufacturing, and power.
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, also addressed the gathering, urging the nation to prioritize its reputation globally. According to him, a positive international image is crucial for attracting investors and boosting economic growth.
“Public Relations builds and promotes reputation. Without a good reputation, no country can attract serious investors to grow its economy,” Neliaku said, stressing the importance of adhering to best practices to improve Nigeria’s global standing.
