Empowerment programme supports 1,200 women, youths as infrastructure projects advance in Kaduna

No fewer than 1,200 women and youths in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State have received vocational training and financial support under the Renewed Hope empowerment initiative of the Tinubu/Uba Sani Mobilisation Network.

The beneficiaries graduated from a three-month skills acquisition programme and received start-up support at a ceremony held on Saturday at LEA Primary School, Rigachikun, Igabi LGA.

The programme, organised by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors of the Tinubu/Uba Sani Mobilisation Network, was designed to promote economic self-reliance, create livelihood opportunities and support grassroots development.

Speaking at the event, Chairman and Convener of the Network, Hon. Abdulmuninu Aminu Zaria, said the initiative aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and complemented efforts by the Kaduna State Government to improve livelihoods.

According to him, participants were trained in eight vocational areas and provided financial assistance to establish and expand small-scale businesses.

“We trained them in various skills and provided financial support to help them become self-reliant and productive members of society.

“Our goal is to create opportunities that will improve livelihoods and reduce poverty at the grassroots,” he said.

Zaria also commended Gov. Uba Sani for what he described as people-oriented policies and developmental programmes across the state.

Speaking on the occasion, former Sole Administrator of Igabi Local Government Area, Jafar Murtala Sabo, highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects in Kaduna State, including the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Highway, the Mando-Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road project, the Kano-Kaduna Gas Pipeline, the Kaduna Light Rail Project and the Ibadan-Kaduna-Kano Railway.

He said the projects were expected to improve connectivity, stimulate economic activities and enhance socio-economic development in the state.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, Hajiya Falmata Abacha, described the graduation ceremony as an important milestone for the beneficiaries.

Abacha said the Kaduna State Government had continued to implement targeted social intervention programmes for women, youths and persons with disabilities in line with its inclusive governance agenda.

“This empowerment programme complements efforts aimed at expanding opportunities for vulnerable groups and promoting economic growth,” she said.

Representing the Zazzau Emirate Council, Alhaji Abdullahi Jumare commended the organisers and stakeholders for supporting community development and youth empowerment initiatives.

Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, Hadiza Muhammad expressed appreciation to the Federal and Kaduna State Governments as well as the organisers for providing the opportunity.

She said participants acquired skills in areas including catering, home farming, computer operations, paint production and bedsheet making.

Muhammad added that the training had equipped beneficiaries with practical and entrepreneurial skills to support self-employment and improve household incomes.

She pledged that participants would utilise the knowledge and support received to strengthen their livelihoods and contribute to community development.