Maryam Aminu
In a bold move to combat youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has concluded a transformative two-week training program that equipped 541 young Nigerians with cutting-edge agricultural skills.
The program, held at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC) in Jos, Plateau State, focused on modern techniques in cassava processing, beekeeping, and fisheries.
Addressing participants at the closing ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the program’s objective of enhancing entrepreneurial capacity and fostering sustainable farming practices among young Nigerians.
Represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, the Minister underscored the government’s commitment to empowering youth and creating pathways for self-reliance in agriculture.
“Our goal is for you to become employers of labour rather than job seekers,” Olawande remarked.
“This training is just the beginning. We are committed to making youth agriculture a priority and ensuring that each year builds upon the last. Your recommendations will be thoroughly reviewed and implemented where possible to ensure continued progress.”
The Minister commended the 541 participants, drawn from the North East, North West, and North Central regions, for their dedication and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills to boost agricultural productivity and foster economic growth.
His Royal Highness, Ada Emmanuel Ajik, the Adagwom of Jos Izere Chiefdom, praised the Federal Government for its youth-focused initiatives.
“No society can develop without equipping its youth to succeed,” he said, urging participants to utilize their training to contribute to nation-building efforts.
Participants were equally effusive in their praise of the program. Idah Abdulwahab Dominion, a trainee, described the experience as life-changing.
“The facilitators made the process seamless, and the knowledge we’ve gained would have cost us a fortune elsewhere. I’m deeply grateful to the Federal Government for this opportunity,” he said.
With over 70% of Nigeria’s population made up of youth, this initiative is part of the Ministry’s larger mission to harness the demographic dividend and prepare young Nigerians for leadership and economic contribution.
Comrade Olawande assured participants that this program is part of a continuous effort to promote sustainable farming practices and provide innovative solutions to unemployment.
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has once again demonstrated its dedication to investing in the future of the nation empowering youth, fostering collaboration, and driving the agricultural sector toward sustainability and innovation.
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