In its efforts to meet its set targets, the North East Youth Initiative for Development (NEYIF) has empowered no fewer than 120 individuals with working tools to successfully kickstart their new professions.
The beneficiaries, from four local government areas—Sokoto South, Sokoto North, Kware, and Wamakko—underwent three months of rigorous training in tailoring, carpentry, tiling, shoemaking, and baking.
Speaking during the presentation of the tools to the beneficiaries, the Chief Executive of NEYIF, Dauda Muh’d Gobir, urged them to apply their newly acquired skills effectively.
He stated that each beneficiary would in turn support at least three family members, thereby contributing to poverty reduction in society.
“It is our belief that, if properly managed, you will all, in one way or another, contribute to poverty reduction in society.
“If we all make use of the opportunity given to us, poverty would be less of an issue. Please do not sell these items to buy phones or clothes for your lovers.
“I can say that if each of the 120 people here helps at least three beneficiaries, you can calculate how many people will benefit indirectly from this opportunity.
“When we return to this state, I hope to see you at a higher level in your respective professions.”
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He also warned that the organization is keeping records on each of the beneficiaries and assured them that NEYIF would continue to monitor their progress closely.
Also speaking, Ambassador Mairo Abass, from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), reaffirmed the NSA’s commitment to supporting Sokoto, particularly during this challenging time of insecurity.
She explained that the goal of the project introduced by NEYIF is to prevent crime, which is why the group focused on training and equipping the beneficiaries with startup kits.
She commended the Sokoto State government for allocating a budget to sustain the program, a rare practice among states in the country.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Musa Balarabe, commended NEYIF for partnering with the state government.
Represented by the Director of International Cooperation, Musa Mohammed Wamakko, he assured that the state was ready to sustain the program beyond NEYIF’s activities.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with our correspondent expressed their gratitude to NEYIF for the training and equipment they received.
They assured that they would do everything within their power to ensure the program achieves its aims and objectives.
