The Sokoto State Government has graduated 300 women and youths trained in tailoring under its skills acquisition programme, as part of efforts to promote self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Each of the beneficiaries received a tailoring machine, N50,000 cash grant and a certificate at the graduation ceremony held in Sokoto.
Speaking at the event, the wife of the Sokoto State governor, Dr Fatima Ahmed Aliyu, said the programme was part of the administration’s broader strategy to empower women and youths with vocational skills and productive means of livelihood.
She said the government considered youth and women empowerment a key priority, noting that practical skills were essential to tackling unemployment, reducing idleness and creating opportunities for economic independence.
According to her, thousands of women and youths have been trained through various ministries, departments and agencies. She added that the establishment of the Ministry for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship was aimed at strengthening vocational training and entrepreneurship development in the state.
Dr Fatima also highlighted the Ahmad Aliyu Initiative, which she said supports small and medium-scale businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs and other livelihood activities.
She urged the graduands to make judicious use of the machines and cash provided to them.
“Take your business seriously, stay committed and use the skills you have acquired to become financially independent and, eventually, create employment opportunities for others,” she said.
The governor’s wife commended the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Department of Community Development for implementing the programme, and assured that the government would continue to expand skills acquisition opportunities for women and youths across the state.
