The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has revealed that 97,000 Nigerian youths will be trained in food and livestock farming through the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI), a flagship programme under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
This initiative is a joint effort involving the 12 River Basin Development Authorities (RBDA) and the National Seed Council (NSC). It aims to boost food production and reduce youth unemployment in Nigeria through hands-on agricultural training and support.
During a recent meeting with the RBDA management team in Abuja, the Director General of the NDE, H.E. Silas Ali Agara, stated, “This programme is designed to equip our youth with valuable skills in farming and livestock production. They will be able to stand on their own and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s agricultural output.”
He also noted that the RBDA will provide land, tractors, fertilizers, and other essential resources to support the trainees. “The NSC will supply improved seeds, ensuring that these young people have all they need to succeed,” he added.
Agara stressed the importance of serious commitment from participants, explaining that loans will be given to help them become independent food and livestock producers.
Managing Director of the Sokoto River Basin Development Authority, Alhaji Abubakar Malam, praised the programme, saying, “We are proud to be part of this initiative. Our river basins will be fully utilized to empower the next generation of farmers.”
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The agricultural programme is expected to play a key role in improving Nigeria’s food security while creating sustainable employment for thousands of young Nigerians.