Challenges Of Unemployment And Governance In Nigeria: Implications For Job Creation In A Distressed Economy

Abstract

The incidence of unemployment in Nigeria in the 21st century is alarming. The rates keep on rising without any appreciable effort to cushion the effects. Hence, this paper examines the challenges and factors responsible for unemployment rate in Nigeria and the effort of the Buhari’s administration to create more jobs. Findings revealed that corruption in both public and private domain and at the individual levels, industrial decay, and neglect of the agricultural sector are among many others factors responsible for the scourge. It was also revealed that widespread poverty, youth restiveness, high rate of social vices and criminal activities are prevalent because of joblessness, and if not controlled, apathy, cynicism and revolution might become the consequence. The study therefore, recommends urgent intervention in the sensitive sectors of the economy such as power, industry, and agricultural sectors in order to create employment opportunities. Also, the fight against corruption should be intensified.