Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, on Friday, December 19, 2025, launched a ₦1 billion Youth Empowerment Scheme in Maiduguri, describing it as a strategic investment in human capital development and sustainable economic growth.
Speaking at the event, Governor Zulum said the initiative goes beyond financial support, noting that it is designed to restore dignity, renew hope, and strengthen the economic base of the state, particularly among youths and small-scale entrepreneurs. He said, “This programme is about restoring dignity, renewing hope, and building a stronger economic foundation for Borno State.”
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human capital development, stressing that the true wealth of any society lies in the skills, creativity, and determination of its people. He explained that investing in people remains a key pillar of his government’s recovery and development agenda.
Governor Zulum highlighted key youth-focused interventions already implemented by his administration, including the establishment of vocational training centres, recruitment of youths into the State Transport Management Agency, and the Rural Youth Empowerment Scheme, which he said has supported thousands of beneficiaries across the state.
He also disclosed that the state government has sponsored youths to study aircraft piloting and aeronautical engineering, adding that over 400 youths are currently pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. According to him, these efforts are aimed at building advanced skills that will support long-term development.
According to the Governor, more than 5,000 youths will benefit from the current empowerment programme, which includes training in financial management, digital skills, modern business practices, and customer relations to ensure sustainable impact. He emphasized that the scheme is an investment and not a handout, urging beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and serve as mentors within their communities.
He assured that similar organisations, including road transport workers’ associations, will receive government support in due course, while calling on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding. A breakdown of the ₦1 billion fund shows that 28 beneficiaries under Group A received ₦1 million each, 189 beneficiaries under Group B received ₦300,000 each, 835 beneficiaries under Group C received ₦100,000 each, while about 3,500 apprentices also received ₦100,000 each. The cost of equipment stood at ₦451.9 million, with logistics and resource packages costing ₦31.86 million.
Governor Zulum expressed confidence that disbursement would commence immediately. Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth Empowerment, Comrade Sainna Buba, commended the Governor, noting that the programme covers almost all Local Government Areas of Borno State.
