CONTEMPORARY TRENDS OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND EMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIAN SOCIETY: A SOCIO-CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Nigeria as a nation with its burgeoning youth population currently faces immense challenges in providing adequate opportunities for employment and empowerment for her youth. The socio-economic, political, and cultural life of the nation has been endangered because of poor youth empowerment and employment. The alarming rate of unemployment particularly among the youth has exacerbated social tensions, economic disparities, and political instability. These challenges are fuelled by corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient access to quality education and vocational training. This research shows how the Church plays a vital role as a moral and social institution which advocates for justice, equity, and empowerment. The church in her bid to tackle youth unemployment has actively engaged in initiatives which are aimed at empowering youth and promoting socio-economic development. These initiatives include skills development programs, entrepreneurship training, skill acquisition schemes, and advocacy for policy reforms. The socio-Christian approach adopted in this research offers a valuable framework for an understanding of these challenges within a broader context of social justice, human dignity, and community solidarity. Through harnessing the moral and ethical principles embedded in this perspective, stakeholders can work towards building a more inclusive, equitable and prosperous future for Nigerian youth. This research provides insights into the contemporary trends of youth empowerment and employment in Nigerian society from a socio-Christian perspective. It highlights the challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions thereby recommending the importance of collaborative efforts and holistic approaches in addressing these issues