The Senate on Wednesday passed a bill to establish a National Internship and Unemployment Benefit Scheme.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Shuaib Salisu, aims to provide part-time jobs and stipends for unemployed graduates in Nigeria.
The scheme will create a database of unemployed youths and establish a framework for providing part-time jobs while they search for full-time employment.
The bill’s sponsor believes the scheme will address insecurity and criminal activities arising from unemployment.
While many senators supported the bill, Senator Ahmed Wadada argued that creating an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive is the solution to unemployment, not providing benefits for the unemployed.
The Senate President referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Labour and Productivity for further input and reporting within four weeks.
