The Nigerian Army has launched a skills acquisition programme in Katsina aimed at empowering 10,000 widows, orphans and youths to become self-reliant and reduce insecurity.
The initiative, launched by the 35 Battalion and sponsored by 17 Brigade, began with the training of 120 beneficiaries at the barracks in Katsina.
The Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ishaya Ibrahim, represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Nehemiah Yakubu, said the programme was designed to equip beneficiaries with vocational skills and create economic opportunities.
He said engaging youths in productive activities could reduce their involvement in criminal activities and other forms of insecurity.
The commander said beneficiaries would receive starter packs or financial support after the training to enable them to establish businesses.
The Commanding Officer, 35 Battalion, Lt.-Col. Okorie Obasi, said the first batch would undergo three months of training, adding that the programme would be extended to youths from surrounding communities.
Obasi said the next batch would comprise about 200 beneficiaries, while subsequent batches would continue until the target of 10,000 beneficiaries was achieved.
He said the programme was being implemented in collaboration with the Subulul Salam Skills Acquisition Centre and was aimed at addressing youth unemployment and reducing factors contributing to banditry and other crimes.
The Director-General of the centre, Imam Samu Adamu-Bakori, said the initiative would provide vocational training and support beneficiaries in establishing small businesses after completing the programme.
He expressed optimism that the programme would promote self-reliance, reduce unemployment and strengthen economic opportunities in Katsina State.
