Skills acquisition solution to youth’s restiveness – Zulum

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has identified skills acquisition and education as solution to youth’s restiveness.

The governor made this known on Thursday at the 7th National Council on Youths Meeting (NCYM) in Maiduguri.

The theme of the meeting is: “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to Thrive and Catalyse Economic Development.”

He said his administration had supported youths through vocational training, skills acquisition, education, scholarships, provision of three cycles and electric vehicles for transportation.

“Youth population is an asset of a nation, as recent statistics shows that 70 per cent of the Nigerian population is under the age of 30.

‘This is a great potential as it translates to a larger productive economy in the near future with these promising demographics.

“In our society, the youths have faced numerous challenges, ranging from economic uncertainties, educational barriers and insufficient opportunities among many others,” he said.

He, however, observed that it was inspiring to see how many young people were stepping up, driving change and becoming the architects of their destinies to better their tomorrow.

“It is on record that youths in Borno have greatly contributed to peace and security and the overall socio-economic development of the state.

“The emergence of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) had brought a great respite to the security architecture of the state.

“Borno indeed has reclaimed its glorious position of Home of Peace and Hospitality,” the governor noted.

Zulum therefore, urged the participants to feel at home and enjoy the centuries long hospitality of the good people of Borno.

“As a government, we recognise that our youths are the backbone of our society and it is our responsibility to provide you with all the necessary support and resources to thrive and develop to your full potentials.

“We believe that investing in our youths is investing in our future and we are committed to creating opportunities for you to grow and be successful,” he said.

Zulum, however, commended the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, the state Commissioner for Youths, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Saina Buba for choosing Borno as venue of the meeting.

Earlier, Olawande observed that the meeting reflects President Bola Tinubu’s collective commitment in advancing the interest of Nigerian youths in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda.