By Stella Odueme
As part of its effort to tackle unemployment among Nigerian youth, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, has successfully trained 541 young individuals in modern agricultural techniques, including cassava processing, beekeeping, and fisheries.
Speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the two-week training programme which took place at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Center, CLTC, Jos, Plateau State, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that the programme aims to equip young people with modern agricultural techniques and practices to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and knowledge as well as engage them in agriculture while fostering networking and collaboration among the young individuals.
A statement by Omolara Esan,
Director of Information and Public Relations on Saturday said the Minister explained that the training would promote sustainable farming practices, thereby enhancing their employability in the agricultural sector.
He assured the 541 participants who came from the North East, North West, and North Central Regions that the programme would be continuous, adding that it is designed to empower Nigerian youth and enable them to maximize their potential.
“Our goal is for you to become an employer of labour rather than constantly seeking employment.
“I can confidently say that we are actively making progress, and youth in agriculture is a priority in the Ministry of Youth Development. Each year will continue to be better than the last. I have noted all your recommendations and requests. When we return to Abuja, a detailed report will be submitted for implementation, and I can assure you that we will do our best to follow through on these plans,” Olawande assured.
The Minister, represented by Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized that the future belongs to the youth, who currently make up over 70 per cent of Nigeria’s population.
He highlighted the importance of investing in young people, noting that they will be the ones to carry the responsibilities of our nation in the coming years.
In his welcome remarks, His Royal Highness, Ada Emmanuel Ajik, Adagwom of Jos Izere Chiefdom, Jos-North Local Government Area, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for organizing training for the teeming youth across the country and for being part of the historic occasion.
