Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, has stated that the federal government would begin enforcing a minimum age of 12 years and above for persons to engage in apprenticeship in the nation.
Speaking at a rally to conclude the sensitization in Abuja’s Kugbo Furniture Market, Onyejeocha stated that the enforcement process has begun with sensitization sessions in the country’s six geopolitical zones.
The minister, who was represented by Mohammed Suraj, Director, Skills Development and Certification Department, stated that hiring an apprentice under the age of 12 constitutes child labor and violates United Nations and International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and standards. She further stated that the policy is clearly outlined in Labour Law Cap 198 Section 49-53 LFN.
The sensitisation event was held in the following geopolitical zones: South-East, Umuahia, Abia State, South West, Ondo State, South South, River State, North Central, Makurdi, Benue State, North East, Gombe, Gombe State, and North West, Katsina, Katsina State.
She also stated that the government is devising strategies to increase job creation by granting Trade Test Certificates of Competence to suitable individuals.
To be eligible for the training plan, an apprentice must be accredited by the Federal Ministry of Labor and Employment, Department of Skills Development and Certification, in order to maintain a standard before training begins. The training curriculum is reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that it reflects international best practices and technology advancements.
Onyejeocha said; “Labour law cap 198 section 49-53 LFN clearly spelt out the minimum age for apprenticeship in Nigeria to be 12 years. Anyone engaging an apprentice who is below this age is indulging in child labour according to the United Nation and International Labour Organisation (ILO) convention and standards.
“Our apprentices undergo oral, written and practical tests at the end of training after which the trade test certificate of competence will be issued to successful candidate at a subsidised fee.
“At our training workshop safety precautions and regulations are strictly enforced by skills Department and Certification Officers and Safety Officers of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in order to avoid accidents and death.
“Apprentice must be seen to work under a good, safe and satisfactory conditions.”
