By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) on Thursday distributed business starter packs to 20 youths in Bauchi State who were trained in fabricating energy-efficient stoves and producing eco-friendly briquettes.
The initiative, which targeted beneficiaries trained between 2023 and 2024, aims to curb deforestation in the North-East region while driving youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic self-reliance.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the NEDC Bauchi State Coordinator, Alhaji Aliyu Isyaku, explained that the equipment was provided to help the youths launch sustainable businesses and create jobs.
Isyaku highlighted the immense economic and environmental potential of the ventures, noting that switching to energy-efficient stoves and briquettes directly reduces the region’s heavy reliance on firewood.
“This initiative aligns with the NEDC’s mandate to promote sustainable development across the North-East,” Isyaku said.
He urged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity to improve their livelihoods, adding that the commission is ready to support similar projects based on measurable results.
The Commission officials issued stern warnings against the misuse or resale of the distributed packs.
Sulaiman Ibrahim, an NEDC official, stated that the commission will closely monitor the beneficiaries and warned that selling or abandoning the equipment would attract strict sanctions.
Lawal Saidu, another official, advised beneficiaries with conflicting schedules to partner with trusted associates or younger relatives rather than letting the opportunity go to waste.
Alhaji Modu Ali also urged the youths to embrace entrepreneu
The beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude to the commission, noting that the tools would transform their economic situations and help protect the local environment.
Naimatu Kabir, one of the trained beneficiaries, pointed out that indiscriminate tree felling is causing severe environmental damage in Bauchi State.
She explained that briquettes made from waste materials offer an excellent alternative to conventional charcoal.
“The knowledge and skills acquired have equipped me to train other young people and potentially employ workers as my business expands,” Kabir said.
The NEDC reiterated that it will provide continuous technical guidance to ensure the new businesses succeed and meet their environmental goals.
