- Institute Celebrates Staff Growth with 240 Promotions in Four Years
THE DIRECTOR General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Comrade Issa Aremu, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP) as a transformative initiative that will drive job creation, skill development, and economic empowerment across Nigeria.
Speaking at the official launch of LEEP by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, last Tuesday (April 15, 2025), Aremu praised the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment for its visionary approach to tackling youth unemployment and underemployment.
A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Development
Describing LEEP as a “Great Leap Forward” in Nigeria’s fight against unemployment, Aremu emphasized that the program aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by focusing on skills acquisition, decent work, and private-sector collaboration rather than temporary handouts.
“Empowerment through employment is one of the most impactful tools for sustainable development,” Aremu stated, adding: “LEEP is not just a policy – it’s a practical solution to uplift individuals, transform families, and stimulate national growth.”
He particularly commended the Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, for her leadership in driving the initiative, which aims to create 2.5 million jobs within two years.
MINILS: A Strategic Partner in Job Creation
Aremu reaffirmed MINILS’ commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s employment goals, highlighting the institute’s track record in workforce development.
He noted that MINILS had over the years trained over 1,000 individuals in entrepreneurship and market-relevant skills, positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s labour empowerment landscape.
“As a premier labour institute, MINILS is strategically positioned to contribute to the Ministry’s mission of enhancing skills, protecting workers’ rights, and fostering sustainable job opportunities,” Aremu said.
Celebrating Staff Excellence: 240 Promotions in Four Years
In a related development, MINILS has demonstrated its commitment to workforce motivation and institutional growth, promoting 245 staff members across various cadres in the past four years.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 promotion exercise, Aremu, represented by the Director of Labour and Management Relations, Ezekiel Oyerinde, revealed that the institute invested N14.3 million in promotion exercises since 2021, despite budgetary constraints.
“We have not only prioritized promotions but also provided working tools, paid legitimate benefits, and supported staff welfare and professional development,” Aremu noted.
He urged the newly promoted staff to “promote MINILS and Nigeria through improved productivity and exemplary conduct.”
The event was attended by Mr. Matthias Alexander, representing the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Mr. Babalola Sunday, representing the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Workforce for a Stronger Nigeria
With LEEP set to revolutionize Nigeria’s labour market and MINILS actively contributing to skills development and staff welfare, the future looks promising for job seekers, workers, and the nation’s economic growth.
As Aremu aptly put it: “When we invest in decent work, we invest in sustainable development.”
He stressed that MINILS remains committed to being the home of decent work and a key partner in achieving Nigeria’s employment and empowerment goals.
