By Pwanagba Agabus, Jos
The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has distributed start-up kits to over 350 youths from Plateau State through its Youth Transformation Programme.
The youths also warned not to sell the start-up kits, but use it optimally for their group and that of the nation.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang who flagged off the distribution of the kits, in Jos the State Capital, said, “The N-HYPPADEC Youth Transformation Programme has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth in our hydroelectric power-producing areas. It has provided a platform for skill development, empowerment, and transformation.
“Today, as we witness the distribution of these start-up kits, we are not just handing out tools and equipment; we are handing out the keys to a brighter future, self-reliance, and success.
Mutfwang who was represented by the Deputy Governor of the State, Josephine Piyo, further stated that, “Each of you, the graduates of this program, has shown dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to bettering yourselves and your communities.
According to him, “You have undergone training, acquired new skills, and prepared yourselves for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
“Today marks a significant milestone in your journey toward economic independence and self-sufficiency.
“The start-up kits that you will receive today are not just material possessions; they are symbols of empowerment and potential. They are the tools that will enable you to start your businesses, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth and development of our nation.
“With these kits, you have the power to turn your dreams into reality, to build a better future for yourselves and your families.
“I urge you, the graduates, to make the most of this opportunity. Use these start-up kits wisely, invest your time and effort in your businesses, and never lose sight of your goals. Remember that success is not just about what you achieve, but about the impact you have on others and the legacy you leave behind”, he admonished.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the N-HYPPADEC for their vision and commitment to youth empowerment. I also extend my appreciation to all the trainers, mentors, and supporters who have played a role in shaping the lives of these graduates.
“As we witness the distribution of these start-up kits today, let us celebrate the potential and promise of our youth. Let us support and encourage them as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.
“Together, we can build a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and succeed”, Mutfwang maintained.
Earlier, Managing Director, N-HYPPADEC, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, said, “Today’s event is significant for two main reasons. First, it represents the final segment of phase I of the Youth Transformation Programme (YTP) here in Plateau, where we would distribute starter packs to over 350 youths who have successfully completed our basic skills acquisition programme.
“When we initially envisioned this programme in 2022, many people who considered it as excessively ambitious doubted its feasibility.
“Second, with N-HYPPADEC collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youths Development on the YTP, this occasion highlights the support and recognition we receive from federal government institutions for the Commission’s contributions to national development.
According to him, “The Youth Transformation Programme is an annual initiative by the Commission aimed at youth empowerment and job creation.
“It was developed as the Commission’s way of contributing to the government’s effort in addressing the high unemployment and poverty rates affecting youth in the power producing areas of Nigeria.
“Decades of hydroelectric dam operations have led to frequent flooding in these regions, displacing communities and disrupting local economies.
“This programme, launched in 2022, enrolls young people from our operational communities in skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training. Depending on their chosen trade, the beneficiaries received training over three to six months and monthly stipends throughout”, he explained.
“So far, we have trained over 5,000 youths across the six initial member states of the Commission, including 365 from Plateau State.
“The number of trainees in each state varies due to differences in the size of riverine communities within the areas in which the Commission operates.
“Trainees have acquired skills in a range of trades, such as tailoring, painting, photography and solar installation. Today, we are here to equip these trained youths with the tools they need to begin practicing their new skills.
“In Plateau State, we trained young people in various trades, with the following distribution. We have successfully trained a total of 19 youths in animal fattening, 3 in painting and POP services, 43 in poultry farming and 28 in fish farming.
“Additionally, we provided training in a variety of other skills; 4 trainees learned photocopying and photo editing, 9 focused on solar installation and inverters, and 2 on CCTV installation and maintenance. Our cosmetology programme trained 17 youths, while fashion design and tailoring reached 74 trainees. In hairdressing, 8 persons were trained, alongside 6 in barbing salon services and 8 in event management and decoration.
“We also taught 7 trainees in bag and shoe making, 10 in printing and graphic design and 21 in furniture and cabinet making.
“Moreover, 47 participants completed our computer appreciation course, 17 were trained in irrigation farming and crop production, 6 in metal and aluminum fabrication and 8 in electrical installation and maintenance.
“Finally, our catering and culinary services programme enrolled 28 trainees. This diverse array of talents and skills gives us confidence that these young people will make significant contributions to the economy of Plateau State and the country at large”, he stressed.
