Effect of N- Power Programme Implementation on Job CreationinPlateau State, Nigeria.

Abstract

The study assessed the effect of the N-Power Programme Implementation on job creation among the beneficiaries in Plateau State. This study adopted the mixed method research design, while explanatory sequential design was used for the data analysis. However, the simple linear regression analysis was employed to test the hypothesis of the study. Out of the total number of seventeen (17) local government areas in Plateau State, only three (3) Local Government Areas, which represent three (3) Senatorial Zones were selected, namely; Jos South, Bokkos and Langtang South Local Government Areas. The study revealed that although the N-Power programme created temporary jobs, it was bedevilled with poor administrative lapses. These challenges manifested in the lack of sustainability plans, poor quality of jobs and low employability rate among the beneficiaries. Hence, majority of the youths, who participated in the scheme are still unemployed and underemployed in the State after exiting the programme, as they could neither secure employment nor engage in entrepreneurial activities for self-reliance. Thus, the study recommended among others things, that the N-Power programme strategy be reviewed to include more commitment to sustainability plans, better quality of jobs and training, as well as a participatory approach to both policy design and implementation in Plateau State, Nigeria.