The Ministry of Regional Development has announced that 165 youths and women have successfully completed a skills and empowerment training program in Edo.
The news was shared by the Minister, Mr. Abubakar Momoh, during the closing ceremony of a two-day training session held in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area.
The program, which attracted participants from all 18 local government areas of Edo, focused on shoemaking and bag production. Represented by his Special Assistant on Special Duties, Mr. Augustine Azebeokhai, Momoh emphasized the program’s goal of equipping Nigerian youths and women with sustainable skills for self-reliance and economic independence.
“The essence of the vocational training is to equip Nigerian youths and women with sustainable skills, enabling them to become self-reliant and earn a living,” Momoh stated.
He further revealed that the beneficiaries would receive certificates, starter packs, and cash to aid them in launching their businesses.
Additionally, Momoh highlighted that the training initiative is part of a broader effort across the nine states of the Niger Delta region aimed at reducing unemployment and curbing restiveness among the youth.
“The training affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the youths are engaged,” he noted.
Consultant Jerome Adebayo of Sam’s Sedi Nig. Ltd. underscored the significance of the training and encouraged the participants to leverage their new skills toward achieving financial independence.
“We want to thank the minister for giving us the opportunity to add value to the youths in Edo,” Adebayo said.
In a statement of gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Clement Ikponwonba praised the initiative, stating, “This is a great initiative from the ministry, and we appreciate the minister for this initiative.”
