The Nigerian private sector recorded its strongest job growth in 23 months, with employment rising by 3.8% month-on-month in September 2025, according to a joint report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).
The growth was driven by expansions in manufacturing, information technology, and financial services. NBS Director of Labour Market Statistics, Mrs. Efe Osagie, said,
This increase reflects growing business confidence following government reforms and stimulus efforts.
Mr. Tunde Adetunji, NECA spokesperson, noted that employers are hiring cautiously while investing in skill development.
He emphasised the need for ongoing government-private sector collaboration to sustain job creation and address challenges like infrastructure and finance.
The report follows gradual labour market improvements since early 2024 after prior job losses caused by economic shocks. Experts caution that sustaining growth requires continued policy support and investment in workforce development.
