By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
In Bauchi State, 800 youths and women who were trained in various entrepreneurial skills, have been presented with starter packs and certificates under the Federal government Supported Inclusive Basic Service Delivery Programme.
The initiative which was a collaboration between the State, Federal Government and African Development Bank aims at empowering beneficiaries across the twenty local government areas of the state.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Bauchi, Governor Bala Mohammed described the programme as a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing youth restiveness and reducing dependence on white-collar jobs.
Represented by the Chief of Staff Government House, Aminu Hasan Gamawa, the Governor said that his administration will continue to partner with relevant stakeholders in empowering youth and women for sustainable development
While appreciating the African Development Bank and the federal government for the support ,Governor Mohammed urged the beneficiaries to ultilize the opportunity given to them by becoming employers of labour and not rely on White collar jobs.
“The Inclusive Basic Service Empowerment Integrated Programme, supported by the African Development Bank and the federal government of Nigeria responded to our most urgent need of equipping our people, especially Youths and Women with practical income generating skills that empowers people out of poverty”
“The aim of this Empowerment programme is to ensure we don’t rely on government to employ us,rather we become employers of labour.Today we are gathered here to honour 800 beneficiaries selected from the 20 LGAs of the state.Their selection was not based on political will or favouritism, but on merit. These individuals have undergone training in no fewer than 22 trades of different professional disciplines” He said
He urged the beneficiaries to ensure that the register their companies or business name so that they can get patronage from government and organisations, stressing that the federal government only give support to registered businesses and companies.
The State Project Coordinator, Alhaji Garba Babaji Magaji stated that the starter packs were provided to support the trained beneficiaries in establishing businesses in their respective communities to promote self-reliance.
He also praised the discipline and dedication of the beneficiaries throughout the months-long training and urged them to utilize the tools responsibly to improve their livelihoods.
The twenty two vocational trades covered under the programme include aluminium fabrication, barbing, carpentry, electrical and solar installation, computer operations and maintenance, photography and video production, plumbing and water fitting, and GSM device repairs, among others.