By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has successfully graduated 500 women trainees under its ongoing poverty reduction programme.
The women, drawn from various parts of the state, received training in diverse fields such as leather and crafts, soap making, food and spices production, tamowa production, and hairdressing.
Gov. Aliyu’s Commitment to Empowerment
At the graduation ceremony, Governor Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to training women and youths in a variety of trades, enabling them to become self-reliant. He highlighted that hundreds of youths have already benefited from similar initiatives across Sokoto State.
The Governor emphasized that the efforts of the government, through the Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs, Social Welfare, Local Government Affairs, Poverty Reduction, and Women and Children’s Affairs, are aimed at creating jobs, reducing youth restiveness, and alleviating poverty in the state.
Focus on Skill Acquisition
Gov. Aliyu pointed out that empowering youths through skills acquisition is a top priority of his administration. He called on citizens to support these efforts, ensuring the success of the job creation and poverty reduction programmes. He further announced plans to train more youths in the coming years, aiming to achieve significant goals by the end of his tenure.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
The Governor also outlined his administration’s strategy to fast-track economic growth through the promotion of artisanship and skilled trades. In addition, the state has recently procured 1,000 motorcycles and 500 tricycles, which were sold to youths at subsidized rates to create more employment opportunities.
Words of Encouragement
Gov. Aliyu urged the graduates to make good use of the tools and stipends provided to them, as this will help them support their families.
Support for Women’s Economic Contributions
Earlier, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, Secretary to the State Government, emphasized the vital role of women in economic growth. He encouraged the trainees to prove their worth and honor the trust placed in them.
Alhaji Lirwanu Bello, representing the Sultan of Sokoto, praised Gov. Aliyu’s youth empowerment strategy, stressing that it would play a significant role in reducing crime and criminality in the state.
Recognition of Gov. Aliyu’s Efforts
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Poverty Reduction, Barrister Sa’adtu Yunusa, also commended the Governor for his unwavering support for poverty reduction programmes. She acknowledged the substantial investments made by Gov. Aliyu in the training and equipping of the beneficiaries.
The event concluded with Gov. Aliyu being presented with an ‘Empowerment Trailblazer Award’, in recognition of his dedication to empowering the people of Sokoto State.
