In a transformative move to deepen economic inclusion and tackle poverty, the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) have inaugurated a Joint Committee to strengthen collaboration in enterprise development, skills training, and technology incubation nationwide.
The inauguration, held at NBTI headquarters in Abuja, was attended by the Director Generals of both agencies—Dr. Kolawole Raji of NBTI and Mr. Silas Ali Agara of NDE.
The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes job creation, innovation, and sustainable development.
Mr. Silas Agara, DG/CEO of NDE, lauded Dr. Raji’s leadership, integrity, and forward-thinking vision. He emphasized that both institutions are united by a common goal: to lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty through skills acquisition and entrepreneurial development.
“Our partnership with NBTI represents a major step toward creating sustainable livelihoods. By combining our efforts, we can amplify our impact and bring economic empowerment to Nigerians in every part of the country,” said Agara.
In his remarks, Dr. Raji reaffirmed NBTI’s dedication to expanding its reach beyond its existing 36 Technology Incubation Centres. Plans are underway to establish centres in all 774 local government areas, as well as new technology hubs and innovation parks in each geopolitical zone.
He described the partnership with NDE as a catalyst for grassroots innovation, job creation, and inclusive growth. “President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda ensures no Nigerian is left behind. Whether literate or illiterate, artisan or graduate, we are building a support system that nurtures ideas into sustainable businesses,” he said.
A central feature of the collaboration includes integrating NDE-trained participants into NBTI’s incubation programmes. This ensures that beneficiaries not only gain practical skills but also receive support for business development, funding access, intellectual property protection, and market integration.
The joint strategy is projected to generate over one million jobs annually, foster the use of local raw materials, reduce import dependency, and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s homegrown innovators.
This partnership signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation—one where technology and enterprise are central to building a resilient, self-reliant, and prosperous nation.
