Youth Unemployment and Social Stability in Nigeria: Areas for Legislative Intervention

Abstract

Youth unemployment remains one of the most critical socioeconomic challenges facing Nigeria today. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 25, the country has one of the youngest populations in the world (World Bank, 2024). While this demographic structure offers a potential demographic dividend, persistent unemployment and underemployment among young people threaten social stability, economic growth, and national security. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate was about 6.5% in Q2 2024. Although Nigeria rebased its labour statistics in 2023, unemployment among young people remains significantly higher than the national average (NBS, 2024). High youth unemployment has been linked to rising levels of poverty, crime, migration, and social unrest. Youth frustration has also manifested in political protests, most notably the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with governance, economic opportunities, and police accountability. Despite the Nigerian Government interventions in ensuring gainful employment for youths, like the Nigerian Youth Employment Action Plan (NIYEAP) for the period of 2021 to 2024, aimed to contribute to the achievement of decent, productive and freely chosen employment for young people by complementing and reinforcing existing policy commitments and national development priorities and related efforts. However, youth unemployment remain an issue that if not well tackled may cause social instability in the country. Addressing youth unemployment is therefore essential not only for economic development but also for maintaining social stability and strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria. The National Assembly and the Federal Government may consider the following recommendations: • Convene a multi-stakeholder oversight hearing by inviting the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Ministry of Youth Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ministry Education and organised private-sector stakeholders to review Government policies with aim to promote diversification into labour-intensive sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and digital services. • Urge the Executive to prioritize technical education, vocational training, and digital skills development. • Advise the Federal Government on the need to expand access to finance, business development services, and mentorship programs for young entrepreneurs • Utilize oversight function to advise the Federal Government through the Ministry of Youth Development on the need to improve infrastructure, particularly electricity, transport, and digital connectivity, which are essential for job creation. • Support and strengthen labour polices to support more job creation, improve labour market information systems, and encourage private sector employment.