By Anthony Ochela, Abuja
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Prof. Joseph Utsev, has commissioned a modern Conference and Training Centre at the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA) in Kano State.
A statement by Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, the Director of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry, said the event is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen human capital development, empower youths and women, and promote sustainable irrigated agricultural practices.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Ministe described the centre as a strategic facility dedicated to equipping youths and women with the technical knowledge and practical skills required for modern, innovative, and climate-smart agriculture.
He noted that the training centre was envisioned as a breeding ground for a new generation of agripreneurs who will drive productivity, adopt modern technologies, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“By empowering our youth and women with practical agricultural skills, we are not only strengthening the agricultural sector but also creating jobs, promoting self-reliance, and stimulating inclusive economic growth,” the Minister stated.
The Minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to establish the facility and emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of food security, youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development.
He added that investing in human capital remains a critical pathway to long-term national prosperity.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director of Hadeija Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, congratulated the graduating youths and urged them to effectively apply the knowledge and skills gained to become self-sufficient.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for creating opportunities for youth empowerment through the river basin authority.
The graduating youths received training in drip irrigation, hydroponics, greenhouse technology, and the “Every Home a Garden” initiative, equipping them with practical skills to drive modern agricultural practices in their communities.
