x

Silas Agara: Redefining Leadership and Empowerment at the National Directorate of Employment

By Leo Abel Zwànke
In a time when Nigeria faces unprecedented economic challenges, Silas Agara, the Director General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), has emerged as a transformative force, driving innovative solutions to tackle unemployment and empower citizens at the grassroots.
Under his leadership, the NDE has evolved beyond a conventional employment agency into a hub of opportunity, skill development, and entrepreneurship—embodying the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Agara’s vision is clear: to equip Nigerians, particularly the youth, with the tools needed to build sustainable livelihoods and compete on the global stage. His unwavering commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and impactful governance is redefining what leadership in public service truly means.
The Renewed Hope Agenda, championed by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, forms the backbone of Agara’s leadership at the NDE. Through this agenda, he is striving to ensure that the benefits of economic empowerment and skill acquisition reach those often left behind in Nigeria’s development journey—particularly at the grassroots level. This agenda, stakeholders say, is not just a policy blueprint but a lifeline for millions struggling to find meaningful livelihoods.
Vocational and Technical Skill Revolution
One of Agara’s flagship initiatives at the NDE is the empowerment of Nigerian youth with specialized vocational and technical skills. Dr. Mustapha Idris, a development expert and advocate for youth empowerment, explains the significance of this move:
> “What Agara has done with skill acquisition programes is remarkable. By focusing on vocational training, he is addressing a critical gap—giving young Nigerians the tools to become self-reliant and competitive in today’s evolving global economy. It’s not just about jobs but about creating wealth and fostering innovation.”
Indeed, Agara’s leadership is rooted in the philosophy that empowerment begins with equipping individuals with marketable skills. Programes under his watch range from agriculture, construction, and ICT, to specialized artisan training. These initiatives have already begun to yield tangible results, with graduates of NDE training programes establishing small-scale enterprises across various sectors.
Partnerships: Collaboration for Impact
Agara highlights that meaningful progress cannot be achieved in isolation. To this end, his tenure has been marked by strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including the private sector, development agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
Dr. Halima Mohammed, a social entrepreneur and advocate for economic inclusion, commended Agara’s inclusive approach: “Silas Agara’s leadership style prioritizes collaboration, and this is a game-changer. By engaging stakeholders, including the private sector and development partners, he is creating a synergy that drives sustainable economic empowerment. The NDE’s collaborations are bridging critical resource gaps and creating opportunities for innovation.”
Under his leadership, the NDE has rolled out joint programes that provide funding, mentorship, and market access to budding entrepreneurs. From women cooperatives to youth-focused businesses, Agara’s initiatives have ignited a renewed spirit of entrepreneurship across Nigeria.
From Deputy Governor to National Pathfinder
Silas Agara’s tenure as Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State remains a pivotal foundation for his current successes. As a public servant, he demonstrated a strong commitment to improving infrastructure, enhancing service delivery, and addressing local developmental needs.
Hon. Musa Ibrahim, a community leader in Nasarawa, highlighted Agara’s enduring impact: “Silas Agara has always been a leader with a people-first mindset. As Deputy Governor, his focus on education, healthcare, and infrastructure laid the groundwork for sustainable development. It is no surprise that his vision for the NDE aligns with his proven dedication to empowering the masses.”
This governance experience has shaped Agara’s understanding of grassroots challenges and opportunities, enabling him to design tailored interventions that resonate with the realities of everyday Nigerians.
Renewed Hope: Beyond Employment to Sustainable Livelihoods
What sets Silas Agara apart is his belief that employment initiatives must transcend temporary solutions. His vision is to create sustainable livelihood, a mission that aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. By empowering individuals and nurturing their entrepreneurial potential, Agara is driving long-term economic resilience in communities.
Kingsley Onochie, a policy analyst, describes Agara’s impact as transformative: “The NDE, under Silas Agara, is no longer just an employment agency—it’s a hub for innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship. His emphasis on sustainable livelihoods is reshaping how we approach unemployment in Nigeria.”
A Champion of Democracy’s Dividends
Silas Agara’s leadership at the NDE reflects an unwavering commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the most vulnerable. His work is transforming lives at the grassroots, aligning perfectly with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of economic inclusion and prosperity for all.
In a recent address, Agara re-emphasized his dedication:“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about empowering Nigerians to take charge of their futures. At the NDE, our goal is to create opportunities where they are most needed—at the grassroots level.”
Silas Agara’s tenure as Director General of the NDE marks a defining chapter in Nigeria’s efforts to combat unemployment and economic marginalization. Through visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to grassroots empowerment, he has positioned the NDE as a catalyst for change.
Stakeholder, Technocrats  are of the view that as Nigeria navigates its economic challenges, Silas Agara’s leadership shines as a testament to what is possible when vision, collaboration, and action converge.

Hot this week

NCoS CSC Olukemi Ibikunle Wins 2025 United Nations Award

By Achadu Gabriel, KadunaThe Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)...

Japan Plunges into Political Turmoil as Ruling Coalition Collapses

Japan was thrown into political uncertainty on Friday after...

Amupitan gets nod to head INEC

The National Council of State has approved the nomination...

Kogi Court Sentences 28-Year-Old Husseini Mustapha to Life Imprisonment for Rape

By Noah Ocheni, LokojaThe Kogi State High Court sitting...

Nasarawa Governor, Ministers Commend NCDC as Policy Review Retreat Holds in Lafia

By Leo Zwanke, LafiaThe Minister of Regional Development, Engr....

Hazras Charity Foundation Pays Courtesy Visit to Jigawa State

Reassures Determination to Support Education, Healthcare Delivery ServicesBy Jabiru...

FG Committed to Collaborating with Genuine Private Sector for a Prosperous Nation

…as SGF receives award for promoting climate change initiativeBy...

Senator Aniekan Bassey Seeks Diplomatic Action Over Detained Nigerian Activist

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations...

Zazzaga Congratulates Barr. Buhari Shehu on Appointment as NYCN Interim Chairman

By Israel Adamu, JosChairman of the North Central APC...

Threat to Journalist’s Life Case Suffers Setback in Kaduna Court

…As Police Blame MTN for Delay in Retrieving Audio...

Christian Leaders Caution Against Labeling Nigeria as ‘Country of Particular Concern’

...Say such designation could escalate violence, weaken security responseBy...

Manchester United Owners Issue Fresh Statement Amid Renewed Sale Speculation

Manchester United’s ownership saga has taken another twist after...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_imgspot_img