Federal Training Equips 541 Nigerian Youths with Modern Agricultural Skills for a Self-Reliant Future
The Federal Government of Nigeria has concluded an intensive agricultural training program for 541 youths, focusing on cassava processing, beekeeping, and fisheries.
Held at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Center (CLTC) in Jos, the program aimed to address youth unemployment by equipping participants with modern agricultural skills.
Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the initiative’s goal to transform young Nigerians into self-reliant entrepreneurs through innovative, sustainable agricultural practices.
“The objective is to turn you from job seekers into job creators,” Olawande stated, underscoring agriculture’s potential for self-employment and national economic development.
Represented by Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary, the Minister highlighted that over 70% of Nigeria’s population is youth, essential for future national growth.
“This program invests in your potential because your success will shape Nigeria’s trajectory,” Olusanya noted, reinforcing the importance of empowering the next generation.
Participants came from the North East, North West, and North Central regions, engaging in practical workshops covering sustainable farming, entrepreneurship, and agribusiness management.
Cassava processing modules covered cultivation, harvesting, and value addition, providing participants with comprehensive skills to establish cassava-based businesses in their communities.
The beekeeping segment focused on honey production and hive management, emphasizing the industry’s potential for profitability, sustainability, and environmental conservation efforts.
Fisheries training provided insights into aquaculture, fish breeding, and pond maintenance, critical for improving food security and boosting local economies through fisheries enterprises.
His Royal Highness, Ada Emmanuel Ajik, Adagwom of Jos Izere Chiefdom, commended the Federal Government’s efforts, praising the initiative for empowering the nation’s youth.
“If the youth are truly tomorrow’s leaders, this training is an excellent preparation,” he said, encouraging participants to apply their newly acquired skills.
He stressed that continuous learning and collaboration are essential for national development, urging trainees to contribute actively to their communities and support national growth.
Participant Idah Abdulwahab Dominion shared his positive experience, expressing gratitude for the facilitators’ clear instruction and the invaluable knowledge he gained during the training.
“The skills we learned would have been costly elsewhere; this opportunity has truly empowered us,” Dominion remarked, appreciating the government’s commitment to youth development.
The program’s practical approach, blending theory with hands-on experience, ensures participants are equipped to address real-world agricultural challenges in their communities.
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Sustainability remains a priority, with the Ministry pledging continued support and monitoring to ensure the trainees effectively utilize their newly acquired skills.
Comrade Olawande reiterated the program’s broader vision: reducing unemployment while fostering a generation of innovative, self-reliant entrepreneurs through agriculture and agribusiness initiatives.
“Agriculture offers immense potential for innovation and economic transformation,” he stressed, encouraging participants to explore new opportunities within the sector’s diverse industries.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s strategy for economic diversification, aiming to reduce oil dependence and promote sustainable development through increased agricultural productivity.
Participants leave not only with technical skills but also with renewed confidence, motivation, and a valuable network of peers to support their journeys.
As these youths return to their communities, they carry a mission to apply their training, inspire others, and contribute to national agricultural advancement.
This program’s success sets a precedent for future initiatives, underscoring the transformative power of targeted, strategic youth development in shaping Nigeria’s future.
