Applications Now Open for the 2026 Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) is currently accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This initiative aims to assist recent graduates in overcoming the challenges of today's competitive labor market by linking them with meaningful employment opportunities. The programme acts as a vital bridge, connecting fresh Nigerian graduates to jobs available within both public and private sector organizations across the country.
Established as a Federal Government of Nigeria initiative, the NJFP is financially supported by the European Union (EU) and is executed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Its primary objective is to tackle youth unemployment by matching highly capable Nigerian graduates with placements in Host Organizations nationwide. This approach facilitates skill acquisition, hands-on experience, and the development of a workforce equipped to meet future economic demands.
The Fellow’s Journey: From Application to Career Growth
Application Process
Graduates who have completed their mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year are eligible to apply to become Fellows. Applicants must submit all necessary documentation during this stage.
Assessment and Selection
Once initial documents are verified, candidates undergo a multi-step evaluation process. This includes a computer-based aptitude test, a video presentation, and a psychometric assessment designed to gauge suitability for the programme.
Onboarding
Successful candidates join a pool of applicants where they continue to build their professional profiles while awaiting placement. Placement decisions are made based on how well an applicant’s skills and development goals align with the requirements of available Host Organizations within a designated geographic area.
Work Placement
When a suitable match is found, the onboarding process with the Host Organization begins. Once the Fellow officially starts working, they become part of the NJFP cohort, engaging in a structured 12-month paid work placement.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Throughout the fellowship, participants benefit from mentorship by industry experts and leaders, helping to foster career growth and skill enhancement. Upon completion of the 12-month term, Fellows who are not absorbed by their Host Organizations or who have not secured alternative employment transition into the Alumni Talent Hub for continued support.
Alumni Talent Hub
Graduates of the programme remain connected through the Alumni Talent Hub, where they receive an additional six months of unpaid career guidance and professional development resources to strengthen their employability.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship: Must be a Nigerian citizen.
- Educational Qualification: A fresh graduate with a bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) certificate from any discipline, graduating no earlier than 2022.
- Academic Performance: Minimum of Second-Class Lower (2.2) for bachelor’s degree holders or Upper Credit (>3.00) for HND holders.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be 30 years old or younger.
- Employment Status: Must not be currently employed.
- NYSC Requirement: Must have completed the mandatory NYSC service or possess a valid NYSC exemption certificate.
- Career Commitment: Demonstrated passion and dedication to your chosen career field.
- Contribution to National Development: A clear interest in contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic progress.
- Professionalism: Excellent time management and a professional work ethic.
- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
Required Documents
- Notarized Degree Certificate
- NYSC Certificate or Exemption Letter
Programme Features and Benefits
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Government Initiative | Led by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with funding from the EU and support from UNDP. |
| Duration of Placement | 12-month paid work placements within diverse private and public sector entities. |
| Nationwide Reach | Opportunities available across all 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). |
| Monthly Stipend | Fellows receive a consistent stipend of ₦150,000 monthly throughout the fellowship period. |
| Mentorship | Access to seasoned professionals and industry leaders for career advice and development. |
| Employability Training | Comprehensive training designed to enhance professional skills and workplace readiness. |
| Digital Skills | Focused digital literacy and skills training to remain competitive in the evolving digital economy. |
| Entrepreneurship Training | Programs to nurture entrepreneurial thinking and business skills for future ventures. |
| Alumni Support | Additional six months of unpaid career support through the Alumni Talent Hub for continuous growth. |
For further details and to apply, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme.