Youth empowerment key to national development, says Niger State Governor

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has emphasized the role of youth empowerment in driving national growth, highlighting that nations that have flourished prioritized skill development for their youth.

Bago shared his views at the distribution of start-up kits for over 5,000 graduates from the Youth Transformation Programme, organized by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna.

Governor Bago revealed that development partners are keen to support Niger State’s initiative to train 100,000 youths in agricultural and vocational skills. He also expressed gratitude to N-HYPPADEC for its partnership with the state in relocating communities impacted by floods and in providing clean drinking water.

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N-HYPPADEC Managing Director Abubakar Yelwa praised the Youth Transformation Programme as a significant job creation effort aimed at reducing youth unemployment in member states. The program, which trained over 5,000 youths across six states, offers skills registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, courtesy of N-HYPPADEC.

Speaking on behalf of Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Staff Simon Tyungu commended the program, stating it aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s mission to engage youths in meaningful activities to reduce social vices.

Additionally, HRH Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, lauded the graduates for their dedication, noting that their new skills would bring lasting benefits.