The Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has flagged off the disbursement of ₦60 million to 600 youths trained in different skills under the Sokoto State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, SOSMEDA, and the Department of Community Development.
The flag off ceremony marked the distribution of ₦100,000 each and working tools to beneficiaries who completed various skills acquisition programmes aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and self reliance among young people in the state.
According to the breakdown, 350 youths were trained by the Department of Community Development in tailoring, rice processing, and hybrid farming, while 250 unemployed graduates received training in solar installation and maintenance through SOSMEDA.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aliyu said the programmes were designed to empower youths to become productive and contribute meaningfully to the economic development of Sokoto State.
He said, “Our goal is to make our youths self-reliant and useful to themselves and the society. With the right skills and support, they can reduce unemployment and drive economic growth.”
The governor disclosed that his administration has so far trained over 3,750 young men and women in various skills across the state, adding that youth empowerment remains a top priority of his government.
He urged the beneficiaries to use the grants and tools wisely, assuring them of continued government support through skills acquisition programmes and other initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and social challenges.
Governor Aliyu added that the establishment of the Ministry for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship further reflects the government’s commitment to equipping more youths with relevant skills for sustainable development.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Development, Alhaji Garba Maitumbi Kebbi, commended the governor for his consistent support for youth empowerment programmes.
Maitumbi said the initiative has made a significant difference in the lives of many young people and expressed confidence that the beneficiaries would apply the skills acquired to become self-reliant and support the state’s economy.
He urged them to take advantage of the conducive environment being provided by the government to establish businesses, create jobs, and serve as good ambassadors of the programme.
The Secretary of SOSMEDAN, Hajiya Binta Usman, thanked the governor for his vision and leadership, noting that his commitment has contributed to the success of the training programmes.
She praised the beneficiaries for their dedication and encouraged them to continue using their skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth.
Also speaking, the Representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, the District Head of Wurno, Alhaji Kabiru Chigari Alhassan, described the initiative as consistent with Islamic teachings and the values of the Sokoto Caliphate.
He prayed for the success of the governor and urged the beneficiaries to use their skills for the benefit of their families and communities.
