Nigeria Jubilee Fellowship Programme (Njfp) And Poverty Reduction In Taraba State

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) on graduate employability and poverty reduction in Nigeria. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with beneficiaries and host organizations, and quantitative surveys to measure changes in skills acquisition, workplace productivity, and employment status. Data were collected from of 37 fellows across the 16 LGAs of Taraba states, supplemented with documentary analysis from official NJFP reports. Findings revealed that some of the beneficiaries were recycled, the programme significantly enhanced participants’ professional skills, networking capacity, and exposure to career opportunities, with certain fellows reporting improved chances of long-term employment or entrepreneurial engagement. However, challenges such as limited placement opportunities in rural areas, funding constraints, and sustainability concerns were noted. The study recommends: government must be sincere, to avoid recycling of those who benefitted from same polices strengthening private sector participation, expanding coverage to underserved environment, and instituting post-programme tracking mechanisms to ensure long-term impact, the NJFP demonstrates strong potential in addressing youth unemployment and advancing human capital development in the state.

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