Abuja:The National Human Capital Development (HCD2.0) Programme is set to enhance workforce productivity by focusing on health, education, skills, and livelihood opportunities, according to statements made by Rukaiya el-Rufai, the National Coordinator of HCD 2.0, at a media engagement in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Rukaiya el-Rufai, who also serves as Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change, emphasized that human capital is vital to Nigeria’s development. She highlighted that the strategy aims to cultivate a healthy, educated, and skilled population to contribute significantly to economic growth.
El-Rufai detailed that HCD 2.0’s objectives include improving health outcomes, enhancing learning and skills, and boosting labor force participation. The strategy also addresses obstacles preventing women and young people from engaging fully in the economy.
She noted the importance of turning policy intentions into measurable outcomes, stating, “A strategy is only as powerful as the action it generates.” Effective implementation will require sustained investments, stronger accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in policy and resource allocation.
El-Rufai stressed the role of data in identifying gaps, measuring progress, and determining where additional interventions are needed. She mentioned that initiatives and innovations are already underway across various states to improve human capital outcomes, although significant gaps remain, necessitating stronger efforts to expedite results.
She urged the media to highlight successful initiatives and focus on areas needing improvement. By doing so, journalists can help connect policy decisions with their impact on ordinary Nigerians, particularly women, young people, and workers.
The national coordinator called for enhanced collaboration among government bodies, development partners, institutions, and the media to advance HCD objectives. She advocated for continued government efforts to provide credible data and accessible information on human capital development.
El-Rufai concluded by stating that investments in people’s health, education, skills, and livelihoods are crucial for shaping Nigeria’s economic future, emphasizing that “Nigeria’s greatest resource is its people.” She urged stakeholders to prioritize human capital development in national planning and economic discussions.