The Federal Government in collaboration with the World Bank has begun the training of 300 youths in fisheries, poultry, and animal husbandry under the IDEAS-TVET initiative, designed to boost food security and create jobs across Nigeria.
Flagging off the programme in Gora, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, described the initiative as “a significant step by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to engage youths in productive ventures that would enhance food security and reduce crime.”
Dr. Akabe explained that the training would not only increase agricultural output but also help discourage young people from engaging in activities that could promote insecurity and hinder national development.
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills Project (IDEAS), Mrs. Blessing Ugwu, said the programme reflects the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to empower young Nigerians with relevant vocational and entrepreneurial skills.
Represented by the Head of Communication, Mr. Uche Mbaogu, Mrs. Ugwu encouraged participants to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the initiative seeks to “address unemployment, promote innovation, and foster inclusive development across the country.”
Earlier, the Training Service Provider, Professor John Kennedy-Opara of CSS Integrated Farms, urged the beneficiaries to embrace the training with focus and determination. He said the project “will not only transform the lives of the participants but also enhance Nigeria’s image globally.”
The first batch of the training represents the beginning of a World Bank-supported effort aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Training (TVET) system, equipping youths with practical skills to promote employment, self-reliance, and food production.