Recall that the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA) announced that the list of shortlisted candidates for its upcoming skills acquisition training across the 21 local government areas of Adamawa State is now available.
Speaking to the press, PAWECA Director General, Dr. Michael Zira, said the initiative is in line with the policy of empowerment and youth development championed by the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, His Excellency Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
“We are aware that about two months ago, we visited all the 21 local governments to inform those interested in training at our centres in various fields such as tying, mechanical, electrical, solar panel installation, telephone repair, and welding,” Zira said.
He explained that many of the courses offered are aligned with modern technologies. “His Excellency believes that by the time you learn these courses and take them seriously, you can be able to take care of yourself. A lot of people have succeeded in these courses,” he stated.
According to Dr. Zira, the results for the training centre exams are out, and all candidates are encouraged to check their names at their local government secretariat.
A needs assessment will be conducted on Thursday to help candidates select courses that align with their interests.
“This time around, we are going to monitor and evaluate those in our training centres to ensure attendance. Previously, some participants skipped classes because of the 10,000 naira stipend. Now, you must have 75% attendance before you will be paid,” Zira stressed.
He noted that the governor’s vision is to make Adamawa State a hub for small businesses. “Apart from the fintech sector, which has done marvellous work, His Excellency’s programmes have reduced poverty from 74% to 60%,” he said.
Dr. Zira also disclosed that this month, 40,000 people will receive between 22,000 and 50,000 naira each, amounting to 2 billion naira. “Last year, we reduced poverty with 5 billion naira. This time, apart from the 2 billion, we are adding another 100,000 beneficiaries with 5 billion. With 7 billion, the economy of small business owners will improve, and poverty could drop to 30–40% next year,” he explained.
He urged citizens to pray for the governor and his family, noting the significant changes in the state over the past six years. “If you came to Adamawa six years ago and return now, you might think you are in Dubai or another developed society,” he added.
On enrolment, Zira revealed that 10,000 people are targeted this year, but 6,850 have been sent to training centres so far. “We cannot take all at once. At most, we can admit 4,000 to 5,000 at the same time. The remaining will join in batches depending on the course duration – three months, six months, or one year,” he explained.
He said the training programme will run from August 2025 to August 2026, admitting participants in phases to ensure smooth operations. “It doesn’t matter which month you start, it is a one-year programme,” he concluded.
