By Abdulateeef Bamgbose
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has launched youth empowerment programme, disbursing N252 million to over one thousand young entrepreneurs across Katsina State.
The initiative, titled “Building Your Future Youth Development and Empowerment”, was unveiled at the Local Government Service Commission auditorium in Katsina.
During the launch ceremony, Radda reiterated his administration’s dedication to youth development, stating that “the energy, creativity, and entrepreneurship spirit of our youths are essential to the sustainable growth and prosperity of the state”.
He further outlined the government’s commitment to “create a thriving economic environment where business can flourish” through new policies and initiatives that enhance access to finance and promote entrepreneurship.
The Governor highlighted that this program represents a strategic move to eliminate youth political thuggery in the state, promising continued support and potential recapitalization for successful beneficiaries who demonstrate serious commitment to their businesses.
Deputy Governor, Faruk Lawal Jobe commended the initiative as fulfilling three key campaign promises: “human capital development, empowerment support to the youths, and development projects covering the entire state”.
Deputy Governor Lawal thereafter encouraged beneficiaries to take good advantage of the opportunity to become not only self employed but also employers of labour.
On his part, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasiru Yahya Daura, pledged legislative support for youth-focused initiatives.
State Hisbah Commander, Dr. Abu Ammar committed to monitoring the programme’s implementation and supporting efforts to curb political thuggery. This he said would ensure Government huge investment to meet its purpose.
Other speakers who applauded the initiative include Islamic Scholar from Kaduna State, Dr. Lawal Rashid Makarfi and former Director General Protocol to Governor, Mustapha Wada Saulawa.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Aminu Naster expressed gratitude for the initiative while requesting additional employment opportunities through the State Environmental Protection Agency ,SEPA, for more youth engagement.
