The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) says no applicant will be allowed into the second phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI) without a valid National Identity Number (NIN) and proof of residency in a Nigerian state.
Director-General of the NDE, Silas Agara, made this known on Monday in Abuja while launching the initiative’s official website. He explained that the programme has moved fully online and that the digital rollout will be enforced across all states.
“We have provided the necessary software, hardware, and internet facilities to all our zonal and state offices. Everything will be monitored from the headquarters. This second phase is fully digital,” he said.
The application portal opened on Monday, 28 July, and will close after two weeks. The NDE said there will be no extension.
According to Agara, the registration requirements are clear.
“All applicants must have their NIN. That’s non-negotiable,” he said. “Also, this time around, it is your state of residence that counts, not your state of origin. If you are a Nigerian between 18 and 45, and you live in any state, you can apply.”
Agara added that over 30 different skills will be offered across states, with some areas receiving tailored programmes based on local economic needs.
“What we’re doing is practical. Skills that are relevant in Abia may not be what’s needed in Adamawa. So we’re adapting training to each state,” he said.
He warned that only candidates who register within the stipulated two-week window will be processed. The NDE has linked all its offices nationwide to a central system to track and screen entries.
“No name will be smuggled in,” he stressed. “Only those who complete the online process within the two weeks will be considered. Everything from registration to verification will be visible here at the headquarters.”
Agara also raised the alarm over fake platforms and fraudsters already circulating misleading information.
“Scammers are already out, asking people for money or fake documents. We need the press and the public to be alert. The official NDE site is the only portal for this programme,” he said.
The second phase of the RHEI follows a nationwide rollout earlier this year that targeted unskilled and unemployed Nigerians. The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce youth unemployment and promote vocational skills.
