In a bold move aimed at tackling youth unemployment and fostering self-reliance, the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Katsina State Chapter, on Saturday flagged off a youth empowerment initiative targeting 1,000 beneficiaries.
The event, which took place at St. John Anglican Cathedral Church, GRA, Katsina, marked a significant milestone after previous unsuccessful attempts..
The programme successfully empowered 400 youths across various skills and support categories in its first phase.
Chairman of YOWICAN Katsina State, Mr. Praise Ilemona Isaiah, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to God for making the long-awaited initiative a reality.
He also commended the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, describing him as the major sponsor of the programme.
Isaiah lauded the governor for his unwavering support towards youth development across religious and ethnic lines.
“My special thanks go to His Excellency, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, for his passion and support towards youth empowerment in Katsina State. He is the major sponsor of this program, and we pray for God’s continued blessings upon him and his administration,” Isaiah stated.
He also appreciated the contribution of the Katsina State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, particularly Commissioner Hon. Aliyu Lawal Zakari, Special Adviser Hon. Abubakar Tsanni, and various directors for their role in facilitating the programme.
The empowerment scheme covered the following areas:
50 beneficiaries trained in solar installation
50 in tailoring
50 in ICT
50 in aluminium fabrication
50 students received one-term scholarships
50 farmers supported with agricultural resources
40 youths trained in catering services
60 vulnerable individuals provided with essential support
Isaiah urged the beneficiaries to take the opportunity seriously, advising them to make judicious use of the resources and skills acquired. He also called on philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians to support the continuation of the programme as YOWICAN plans to launch its second phase soon.
“We are not just distributing tools; we are investing in the future of Katsina’s youth. Let us harness our collective energy and creativity to drive positive change,” he concluded.
The event was attended by government officials, faith-based leaders, youth representatives, and community stakeholders, all of whom commended YOWICAN’s initiative and pledged their support for its expansion.
The Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Aliyu Lawal Zakari Shargalle, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment as a tool for reducing unemployment and fostering self-reliance.
Speaking through the Director of the Ministry, Sani Yahaya, said the initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Dikko Umar Radda to equip young people with tools for sustainable livelihood.
He commended the organisers for their dedication to youth development, noting that empowering the younger generation is key to addressing the challenge of unemployment in the state.
The Commissioner urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the opportunity, stressing that self-reliance remains the path to long-term success and stability.
