In spite of the conscious effort by the Babangida administration to combat unemployment by establishing NDE in 1986, unemployment has been on the increase. This study, therefore, attempted to examine NDE and its mandate in the country. Official documents were employed in data collection. The study revealed, among others, that NDE as a programme aimed at combating unemployment has recorded a mixed bag of some successes and continuing challenges. It was, therefore, recommended that the Directorate should be re-examined and possibly overhauled to enhance its performance. It should also be properly funded.