Governor Bago Launches Ambitious Youth Empowerment Initiative in Niger State

Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has announced an ambitious plan to train 100,000 youths across the state in various skills, ranging from agriculture and vocational training to computer technology and barbing. The initiative, aimed at addressing unemployment and enhancing productivity, will engage participants from all 25 local government areas of the state.

Speaking during the weekend in Minna at the distribution of starter kits to over 5,000 graduates of the Youth Transformation Programme, organized by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), Bago emphasized the importance of skills development in fostering economic growth. He lauded the initiative as a significant step toward empowering the state’s youth and enhancing their economic self-reliance.

“Countries that have achieved significant productivity growth have invested heavily in skills development,” Bago said. He also noted that numerous development partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, have expressed interest in collaborating with the state on youth empowerment initiatives.

The governor praised N-HYPPADEC for its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, particularly for supporting flood-affected communities and providing potable water in areas like New Bussa, Bida, and Minna.“This initiative is a remarkable example of Corporate Social Responsibility. By empowering our youths with skills, we are equipping them to stand firm and contribute to our state’s development,” Bago said. “Let me also commend HYPPADEC for its collaboration with the state government in relocating flood-threatened communities and ensuring access to clean drinking water. As a state, we are truly grateful.”

He also urged the beneficiaries to make the most of their new skills and starter kits, warning against selling them for immediate gain. “Skills are valuable only when they are put to use. Do not sell your starter kits. Instead, use them to build a sustainable livelihood,” he advised.
Bago further encouraged those trained in agriculture to partner with established farms and organizations for better results. He highlighted the importance of staying away from drugs and crime, urging the youth to become role models for their communities.

The initiative aligns with the broader efforts of N-HYPPADEC, which aims to tackle unemployment across its six member states. Chief Executive Officer of N-HYPPADEC, Abubakar Yelwa, explained that the Youth Transformation Programme is part of the commission’s job creation strategy.

Yelwa revealed that over 5,000 youths have been trained in the six member states, including 1,500 in Niger, 1,011 in Kebbi, 814 in Kwara, 705 in Kogi, 505 in Benue, and 365 in Plateau. Participants underwent three to six months of training and received monthly stipends during the program. Additionally, they were provided with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) company registration certificates to enhance their entrepreneurial opportunities. Yelwa also disclosed plans for a second edition of the training program, which will include the establishment of an entrepreneurship unit. This unit will focus on coordinating empowerment and job creation activities, with an emphasis on advanced skills acquisition for unemployed graduates and Higher National Diploma (HND) holders.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, represented by his Chief of Staff Simon Tyungu, commended the initiative as a complement to the Federal Government’s efforts to engage Nigerian youth in productive ventures.
“This program is a testament to the collaborative efforts needed to address youth unemployment in Nigeria. It aligns perfectly with the Federal Government’s drive to provide gainful employment for our youth,” Tyungu remarked.

The initiative represents a bold step toward addressing youth unemployment and fostering economic growth in Niger State. With support from various partners and a focus on skills over certificates, the program aims to equip the next generation with the tools needed for self-sufficiency and meaningful contributions to the state’s development.