The federal government has begun implementation of a minimum of 12 years for anyone wishing to engage in apprenticeship in Nigeria as contains in the Labour Act.
This is part of the government’s efforts to curb child labour, which violates the United Nations and International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and standards.
The government commenced the enforcement of the Act with sensitisation programmes across the six geo-political zones with the grand finale at Kubgo Furniture Market in Abuja.
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, warned that anyone found engaging an apprentice below the age limit of 12 will be prosecuted according to the law.
The minister, who was represented by the director, skills development and certification department, Mohammed Tolani Suraj, said the policy had been clearly spelt out under Labour law cap 198 section 49-53 LFN.
He said the sensitisation programme was aimed at enhancing job creation through skills acquisition and ensuring compliance with safety precautions and regulations.
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