Otti Pledges Support for UNDP Youth Empowerment Programme
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has pledged the full support of his administration for youth-focused initiatives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), particularly the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0, aimed at empowering young graduates through job placements.
Governor Otti gave the assurance while receiving officials of the UNDP at the Government House in Umuahia, noting that youth empowerment remains a critical pillar of his administration’s development agenda.
He described the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme as a timely intervention that aligns with Abia State’s commitment to building human capital, reducing unemployment, and preparing young people for leadership and economic productivity.
According to Otti, Abia is ready to collaborate with the UNDP to ensure the success of the programme by providing an enabling environment for fellows to gain practical experience in both public and private sector organisations across the state.
“Our young people are our greatest asset. Any programme that equips them with skills, exposure, and opportunities for meaningful employment will always receive our backing,” the governor said.
Officials of the UNDP explained that the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme 2.0 is an upgraded phase of the initiative, designed to place qualified Nigerian graduates in organisations where they can gain hands-on work experience, improve employability, and contribute to national development.
They added that the programme also aims to bridge the gap between education and the labour market by matching fellows with organisations based on their skills and interests.
The UNDP delegation commended the Abia State Government for its reforms and expressed confidence that the partnership would help expand opportunities for youths in the state.
Governor Otti reiterated that his administration would continue to prioritise policies and partnerships that promote job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth, stressing that empowering young people is key to securing Abia’s future.
