The Sokoto State Government has begun the disbursement of ₦60 million in grants to 600 youths trained in various vocational and technical skills, as part of efforts to promote self-reliance and expand small business activity across the state.
The beneficiaries, trained under the Sokoto State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency and the Department of Community Development, each received ₦100,000 alongside working tools to help them start or strengthen their businesses. Out of the total number, 350 youths were trained in tailoring, rice processing and hybrid farming, while 250 received training in solar installation and maintenance.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the programme was designed to equip young people with practical skills that would enable them to earn a living, reduce unemployment and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic growth. He noted that empowering youths through skills acquisition remains a central pillar of his administration’s poverty reduction strategy.
The governor disclosed that more than 3,750 young men and women have so far benefited from various skills acquisition programmes under his administration. He urged the current beneficiaries to make proper use of the grants and tools provided, stressing that the success of the programme depends largely on their commitment and discipline.
He assured them that the state government would continue to invest in skills training and youth-focused initiatives, adding that these efforts informed the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship. According to him, the ministry was created to institutionalise skills development and ensure a steady pipeline of trained youths capable of driving economic development.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Development praised the administration for its sustained support for youth empowerment, noting that the programme has already transformed the lives of many young people across the state. He said the government remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment that allows trained youths to thrive as entrepreneurs.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to become worthy representatives of the programme by applying the skills acquired to build sustainable businesses and create employment opportunities for others, particularly at the community level.
The Executive Secretary of SOSMEDA also commended the governor’s leadership, describing the programme as a clear demonstration of commitment to inclusive economic development. She urged the beneficiaries to remain focused and continue using their skills to improve their livelihoods and support local economic activity.
In a goodwill message, a representative of the Sultan of Sokoto applauded the initiative, describing it as consistent with values that promote dignity of labour and community development. He encouraged the beneficiaries to use the opportunity to support their families and contribute positively to society, while offering prayers for the continued progress of the state.
The disbursement underscores the growing role of state-led skills and enterprise programmes in strengthening grassroots entrepreneurship and expanding opportunities for small-scale businesses in northern Nigeria.
