The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the federal government to prioritise youth employment.

NLC president Joe Ajaero said this in a statement to mark the 2023 International Youth Day on Friday in Abuja.

The day celebrated annually on August 12, is with the theme ‘Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for all Ages’.

“It is worrisome that unemployment in Nigeria is increasing as recent KPMG estimates raised the alarm about unemployment figures crossing the 40 per cent threshold,” Mr Ajaero stated, stressing that the hike in petrol pump price and attendant high cost of living, including the increase in school fees, had negative consequences for young people.

“This is constraining the youth, especially those from poor backgrounds, from accessing quality education. In solidarity with the young people in Nigeria. We, therefore, call on the government to prioritise youth employment by providing structured support for local manufacturing,” added Mr Ajaero.

The NLC chief urged the federal government to explore all opportunities to develop further young people’s creative talents and productive capacities for accelerated national development.

Mr Ajaero said the NLC was committed to addressing youth challenges as young people were critical to trade unions’ future and nation-building.

“The International Youth Day provides our country with the opportunity for critical reflection on matters relating to the development and welfare of the young people,” Mr Ajaero said.

In December 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 64/134, proclaiming the year beginning August 12, 2010, as the international year of youth, calling upon governments, civil society, individuals and communities worldwide to support activities at local and international levels to mark the event.

The idea for International Youth Day was proposed in 1991 by young people gathered in Vienna, Austria, for the first session of the World Youth Forum of the United Nations System.

(NAN)