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The Benue Fashion Hub in Makurdi has trained more than 300 youths in fashion-related vocational skills since its commissioning, underscoring its growing role as a centre for entrepreneurship and job creation in Benue State.
The facility, commissioned on August 27, 2024, by Vice President Kashim Shettima, was established under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) scheme of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as part of broader efforts to boost enterprise development and create employment opportunities across Nigeria.
Designed as a world-class vocational training centre, the hub is equipped with approximately 180 modern sewing machines, including industrial straight sewing machines, weaving machines, and other specialised fashion design equipment. Beyond garment production, the facility also includes dedicated sections for hairdressing, makeup, and barbing, making it a multi-functional skills acquisition centre.
Speaking on behalf of the Hub Manager, Hon. Erdoo Minan, management staff member Hembafa Philomena Tetegh said the centre has already trained over 300 young people in areas such as garment making, crested designs, and badge production.
According to her, the training programmes run for periods ranging from three to six months, depending on the course, with additional opportunities for advanced skill upgrades. She added that instructors in the computer section underwent specialised preparatory training before the full rollout of the programme to ensure quality delivery.
Tetegh explained that the fashion hub operates on a business sustainability model, with internally generated revenue supporting its operations. Income is derived from trainees’ tuition fees as well as bulk sewing contracts executed for schools, institutions, and organisations.
A fashion instructor at the centre, Mrs. Tofi Yuadoo, described the hub as a comprehensive training environment with the tools required for practical learning. She noted that in her one year and four months at the facility, she has trained children, youths, and adults in different fashion disciplines.
Some trainees, however, say there is room for improvement. Kunav Terngu Benedict praised the learning environment but called for longer training periods to allow participants gain deeper mastery of their skills.
Another trainee, Mrs. Doowuese Ugba, commended the Federal Government for subsidising tuition costs, noting that the initiative has made professional fashion training more affordable. She, however, identified unstable electricity supply as a major challenge affecting learning activities and urged authorities to provide alternative power solutions.
Residents of the host community also praised the project, noting that they benefit from the hub’s water supply infrastructure, while expressing hope for discounted access to some of its services.
The community further acknowledged Governor Hyacinth Alia for providing the land used for the construction of the facility.
