Zulum Equips 2,970 Youths with N2bn Starter Packs

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum Empowers 2,970 Youths with N2 Billion in Starter Packs and Business Kits

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has taken a significant step in youth empowerment by distributing starter packs and business kits worth N2 billion to 2,970 youths who have completed vocational training across the state. The event, held at the Muna Vocational Enterprises Institute in Maiduguri, marked a milestone in the governor’s ongoing efforts to address unemployment and foster economic growth.

The beneficiaries were selected from nine modern vocational institutes established by the Borno State administration. These centers provide specialized training in high-demand fields such as information technology, plumbing, construction, tailoring, welding, and other artisan trades. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to equip young people with practical skills that can lead to sustainable livelihoods.

During his address to the graduates, Governor Zulum emphasized his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, particularly for those affected by over a decade of insurgency. He highlighted how the crisis disrupted livelihoods, increased unemployment, and exposed many young people to hardship. According to Zulum, sustainable interventions are essential to restore dignity and rebuild economic capacity in the region.

Since 2019, the state government has made substantial progress in expanding access to vocational and technical education. Five vocational institutes have been established in Muna, Mafa, Biu, Shani, and Magumeri, while nine training centers have been reactivated. Additionally, three second-chance entrepreneurship schools for women and girls have been created to ensure inclusive growth.

The governor revealed that over N40 billion has been invested in vocational and technical education infrastructure across Borno State. This investment underscores the administration’s dedication to reducing the number of out-of-school youths and promoting self-reliance through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Commissioner for Education, Lawan Abba Wakilbe, praised the program as a direct result of the governor’s vision to empower conflict-affected youths and vulnerable groups. He described the initiative as a critical step toward building a skilled workforce capable of driving economic development in the state.

Key Components of the Vocational Training Program

• Training Centers: Nine modern vocational institutes established by the Borno State government.
• Fields of Study: Information technology, plumbing, construction, tailoring, welding, and other artisan trades.
• Investment: Over N40 billion allocated to vocational and technical education infrastructure.
• Target Groups: Out-of-school youths, conflict-affected individuals, and women and girls through second-chance entrepreneurship schools.

Impact and Future Goals

The program aims to create a pipeline of skilled workers who can contribute to the state’s economy. By focusing on sectors with high demand, the initiative not only addresses unemployment but also fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.

Governor Zulum’s efforts reflect a long-term approach to rebuilding Borno State’s economic foundation. The distribution of starter packs and business kits is designed to give graduates a head start in launching their own businesses or securing employment.

As the state continues to recover from years of instability, initiatives like these play a crucial role in restoring hope and opportunity for its youth. With sustained investment and support, the vision of a self-reliant and prosperous Borno State becomes increasingly attainable.