Jigawa State government has so far trained over 4,000 youths in different skills across the state last year.
Governor Umar Namadi disclosed this when an International Institute of Tropical Agriculture IITA delegation led by Mrs Aline Mugisho, Executive Manager of the IITA’s I-Youth Project, paid a courtesy call to the Governor at government house Dutse.
He explained that the youths were now within their societies, carving out a living for themselves and their families.
According to him, the state government have seven functional skills acquisition centers in Jigawa State.
On agriculture, Mallam Umar Namadi said, the state also have three agricultural training institutions where they train their youths in various agricultural skills.
“Currently, we are reviewing our agricultural policy with the support of FCDO, and the objective is to ensure that agriculture should be seen as a business. And we are working along that path, convincing our youths that agriculture is no longer a subsistence issue; it is now a business where you can earn a living. This made us come out with so many programs that we involve our youths.”
The Governor pointed out that, they are implementing cluster farming systems to engage the youth effectively and develop the entire agricultural value chain.
He expressed enthusiasm for the cooperation of IITA, recognizing agriculture’s role as a primary employer in Nigeria.
He stressed the alignment of IITA’s new approach with Jigawa State 12 point development agenda while emphasizing the need to embrace agriculture as a viable business opportunity for youth.
He said the collaboration with IITA resonates deeply with his administration’s focus on agricultural development, saying that by strengthening the agricultural value chain, the state can significantly reduce unemployment, boost the economy, and promote self-sufficiency.
Namadi highlighted Jigawa’s ongoing efforts in skills development, with over 4,000 youths trained in various skills within the past year. Additionally, the state is enhancing agricultural training through dedicated institutions and reviewing policies to promote agriculture as a profitable venture.
Earlier, Ms Mugisho highlighted IITA’s extensive experience in Africa’s agriculture, spanning over 50 years, and its operations in 134 countries.
She emphasized the need to rethink existing agricultural practices and technologies to address challenges faced by farmers across various ecological zones.
The leader of the IITA’s delegation recognized the critical importance of empowering young Nigerians and enhancing their interest in agriculture through technology-driven solutions.
“We believe in the potential of Nigerian youth and the transformative power of education,” she said. “Our initiatives have already created over 52,000 direct jobs and benefited over 200,000 individuals. Now, we are committed to making Jigawa a center of excellence in agricultural development.”
The cooperation between Jigawa State and IITA signifies an essential step towards harnessing innovation and technology to drive sustainable agricultural growth, create employment opportunities, and empower young people in the agricultural sector.
COV/USMAN MZ
