574,498 Nigerians joined the labour market in Second Quarter of 2015 – National Bureau of Statistics


The National Bureau of Statistics on Sunday said a total of 574,498 active people joined the labour market in the second quarter of this year.
It stated this in its second quarter unemployment/underemployment report, which was made available to our correspondent in Abuja.


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Within the same period, the report stated that the total number of people in full employment (did something for at least 40 hours) decreased by 1,317,700.


It attributed the decrease in the number of people in full employment to either job losses or that the previously fully employed persons chose or were forced to work on a part-time basis.


It added, “In the Q2 2015, the labour force population (those within the working age population willing, able and actively looking for work) increased to 74.0 million from 73.4 million in the Q1 2015, representing an increase in the labour force by 0.81 per cent.


“This means 574,498 economically active persons within 15 - 64 years old entered the labour force. That is, they were able and willing and actively looking for work between April 1 and June 30, 2015.”


Underemployment occurs if one works less than full time, which is 40 hours per week.

It can also occur if one works full time but engages in an activity that underutilises one’s skills, time and educational qualifications.