Are you a recent graduate searching for meaningful work experience and structured career support after school? The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2026 was established precisely to address this critical transition phase by offering young Nigerian graduates a 12-month paid work placement with a monthly stipend of 150,000 NGN.
Through this initiative, graduates are supported as they navigate Nigeria’s competitive labor market and build practical skills that enhance long-term employability.
Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2026
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program (NJFP) 2026 is a nationally coordinated graduate employment initiative designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. It was created to connect talented Nigerian graduates with structured work opportunities across public and private sector organizations nationwide. Rather than leaving graduates to struggle independently in a challenging job market, the program was designed to serve as a guided pathway into professional life.
The programme is a Federal Government of Nigeria initiative, funded by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Through this collaboration, a system has been established where young graduates are placed in host organizations that align with their skills, interests, and development needs. As a result, both graduates and employers benefit from a structured, talent-focused engagement.
Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program (NJFP) 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Program Name | Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program (NJFP) 2026 |
| Host Country | Nigeria |
| Program Type | Graduate Fellowship / Work Placement |
| Funded By | European Union (EU) |
| Implemented By | UNDP, in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria |
| Eligible Applicants | Young Nigerian Graduates |
| Placement Duration | 12 Months |
| Monthly Stipend | 150,000 NGN |
| Coverage | 36 States + FCT |
| Application Deadline | Ongoing |
| Employment Type | Full-Time Fellowship Placement |
What Is the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program All About?
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program was introduced as a strategic response to graduate unemployment in Nigeria. Although many young people graduate from universities and polytechnics every year, access to quality entry-level opportunities remains limited. Consequently, many graduates struggle to gain the work experience required by employers.
Through the NJFP, a structured intervention has been created to address this issue. Graduates are matched with host organizations where they can apply their academic knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and develop professional competencies. During the fellowship period, exposure is provided to real workplace challenges, team collaboration, and performance expectations.
Furthermore, the program does not end abruptly after the 12-month placement. Instead, additional career support is offered through an Alumni Talent Hub, ensuring that fellows continue to receive guidance even after the paid fellowship ends. In this way, the program supports both immediate employment outcomes and long-term career development.
The Journey of a Nigerian Jubilee Fellow
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program follows a structured pathway that guides applicants from application to alumni status. Each stage has been carefully designed to assess readiness, match talent effectively, and support growth.
Application Stage
The journey begins when an eligible graduate submits an application along with the required documentation. At this stage, proof of academic qualification and NYSC completion or exemption is required. Applications are reviewed to ensure basic eligibility criteria are met.
Assessment and Selection
Once documentation is approved, applicants are required to complete several assessments. These typically include a computer-based aptitude test, a video submission, and a psychometric evaluation. Through these stages, cognitive ability, communication skills, and professional disposition are assessed.
Onboarding and Matching
Applicants who complete the assessments are onboarded into a talent pool. During this phase, CVs are developed and refined. Candidates then wait to be matched with host organizations based on skill requirements, career interests, and geographical considerations.
Work Placement and Fellowship
When a suitable match is identified, placement arrangements are initiated. Once the graduate resumes at the host organization, they officially become a Nigerian Jubilee Fellow. From this point onward, the 12-month paid fellowship begins.
Mentorship, Growth, and Alumni Support
Throughout the fellowship, exposure to mentorship, skills training, and professional development activities is provided. After the fellowship, those who are not retained or do not secure alternative employment are transitioned into the Alumni Talent Hub for further guidance and career support.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To ensure fairness and alignment with program objectives, specific eligibility criteria have been set for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program 2026.
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen.
- Must be a fresh graduate who obtained a bachelor’s degree or HND certificate not earlier than 2022.
- Must have graduated with at least a Second Class Lower (2.2) for bachelor’s degree holders or an Upper Credit for HND holders.
- Must be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Must not be currently employed.
- Must have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or possess a valid exemption certificate.
- Must demonstrate commitment to a chosen career path.
- Must show interest in contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
- Must possess good time management, professionalism, and communication skills.
These requirements were established to ensure that the program supports young graduates who are genuinely at the early stages of their careers.
Program Benefits and Highlights
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program 2026 offers a comprehensive support structure designed to improve employability and career readiness.
12-Month Paid Work Placement
Fellows are placed in host organizations for a full year, allowing sufficient time for meaningful contribution and learning. This duration ensures that skills are not only learned but also applied consistently.
Monthly Stipend of 150,000 NGN
Throughout the fellowship, participants receive a monthly stipend of 150,000 NGN. This financial support allows fellows to focus on professional development without undue financial pressure.
Nationwide Opportunities
Placements are available across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Therefore, opportunities are not limited to major urban centers alone.
Mentorship and Skills Training
Fellows gain access to mentorship from experienced professionals. In addition, employability training, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship education are provided to broaden career options.
Alumni Talent Hub
After the paid fellowship, additional unpaid career guidance is offered for up to six months through the Alumni Talent Hub. This ensures continued support during the job search phase.
Why the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program Matters
The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program 2026 plays a critical role in workforce development. By aligning graduate skills with employer needs, the program strengthens the national talent pipeline. Moreover, public-private collaboration is encouraged, fostering shared responsibility for youth employment.
For graduates, the program offers structured entry into the workforce. For employers, it provides access to motivated and pre-screened talent. As a result, the overall employment ecosystem is strengthened.
Required Documentation
Applicants are required to provide the following documents during the application process:
- Notarized Degree Certificate or HND Certificate
- NYSC Discharge Certificate or Exemption Certificate
These documents are used to verify eligibility and academic standing.
Official website: https://www.njfp.ng/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Program (NJFP) 2026?
It is a federal government initiative that provides young Nigerian graduates with a 12-month paid work placement to enhance employability.
How much is the monthly stipend?
Fellows receive 150,000 NGN monthly throughout the 12-month placement.
Is the program open to all disciplines?
Yes. Graduates from any discipline can apply, provided the eligibility criteria are met.
Is NYSC completion mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must have completed NYSC or possess an exemption certificate.
Does the program guarantee permanent employment?
Employment is not guaranteed. However, many fellows gain valuable experience that improves their chances of securing jobs.
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