ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of N-Power programme on unemployed youths in Nigeria with a particular reference to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Makurdi, Benue State. The study was theoretical anchored on the Human Capital Theory (HCT); the theory suggests that individuals and society derive economic benefits from investments in people. The study adopted descriptive research method. Data was collected through the use of structured questionnaire. A total number of 400 copies of questionnaire were administered to the respondents during the study while 381 copies were properly filled and returned for the data analysis. Data analysis was undertaken at five percent (5%) level of significance. Non-parametric test statistics of Chi-square (X²) with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 20.0) was employed for the data analysis. Among other things the result of the study showed that N-power is not having significant effects on job creation in Makurdi; N-power is not playing significant role in empowering youths and improving their standard of living in Makurdi; that N-power is not making significant contribution to poverty reduction in Makurdi; and that N-power has significant effects on creativity. The study recommended that government and the management of N-power should expediently use develop strategies that are not only empowering for the youth but that which will impact positively on their welfare.

1.2       Statement of the Problem

Youth unemployment is a global trend, but occurs mostly in developing countries of the world, with attendant social, economic, political, and psychological consequences. Massive youth unemployment in any country is an indication of far more complex problems and an opportunity for youths to be actively mobilized by politicians, warlords, criminal gangs, illegal migration syndicates.

Unemployed youth are readily available for anti-social criminal activities that undermine the stability of societies; especially in the area of Internet Usage, manipulations and other social vices. Unemployed and underemployed youth are more exposed to conflicts and illegal activities-many of them fall prey to armed and rebel conflicts’. The creation of enabling environment to promote investments and job opportunities for the youths by this political dispensation is highly commendable. This seeks to assess the effects of N-Power on unemployed youths in Nigeria with a particular reference to Ministry of Youths and Sports in Makurdi, Benue State.

1.3       Objectives of the Study

            This research work is aimed at assessing the effects of N-power programme on unemployed youths in Nigeria with a particular focus in the ministry of youth and sports, Makurdi metropolis.

To achieve this aim, the following objectives are to be fulfilled:

i.           to examine the effects of N-power on job creation.

ii.        to evaluate the effects of N-power on improved standard of living.

iii.       to investigate the effects of N-power on poverty reduction.

iv.       to evaluate the effects of N-power on creativity.

1.3     Research Questions