National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and Socioeconomic Development in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The paper discussed the impact of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) on social and economic development in Akwa Ibom State. The study took a cross-sectional research design where both primary and secondary data were used. Questionnaires were distributed to NDE programmes beneficiaries in the three senatorial districts in Akwa Ibom State. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was used to test the hypotheses developed. Based on observations, the paper indicated that Vocational Skill Development (VSD), Small Scale Enterprises (SSEs), Rural Employment Promotion (REP), Special Public Works (SPW) and Graduate Coaching Scheme (GCS) are the main aspects of National Directorate of Employment (NDE). These interventions opened income-generating opportunities, enhanced employability for the youths and women, promoted self-reliance and facilitated inclusive development, thus bringing positive changes in poverty in Akwa Ibom State. The research recommended more funding by the government and transparency in programme execution, periodic monitoring and evaluation to enhance accountability, enhanced collaboration with the players in the private sector towards sustainability and availability of micro credit programme to help the trained beneficiaries start businesses. Enhancing such measures would make the NDE an effective approach of socioeconomic development in Nigeria