₦airaland Forum

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for concerted efforts to protect forests and green areas in urban and reserved areas, even as the state government is pushing for initiatives to create greener cities and harness the state’s rich and diverse forest assets.

The governor said this in commemoration of the International Day of Forests 2018 marked by the United Nations and other partner agencies on March 21 every year.

The governor, who stressed the need for collaboration between government and civil society groups in preserving environmental diversity, said that the Edo State’s plan to set up a forestry commission and an agency for parks and gardens are all geared towards protecting her diverse forest assets.

According to him, “Edo State has rich forest assets that require nurturing. Much as some parks are within the purvey of the Federal Government, we are also looking at exploiting the rich forest assets we have to drive tourism, aside the overarching objective of conserving and preserving the environment.

“We are in talks with investors to help harness our forest reserve and ensure that we halt deforestation in the state.”

He noted that measures taken to safeguard the Ogba Zoo and Nature Park in the city centre and prevent its deforestation were pointers to some of the initiatives to be taken to preserve such assets in the state.

He said this year’s theme: “Forest and Sustainable Cities” is not just apt but captures his administration’s reserve to ensure that the state safeguards its flora and fauna.

He said, “The case for greener cities cannot be over-emphasised as it is evidently the way to go in a world bedevilled with deforestation and the perils of climate change. This is why we want to ensure that the state exploits its forest assets for tourism receipts.

He urged federal agencies charged with enforcing policies and laws on conservation and preservation to be alive to their responsibilities, as the state was ready to support them in fulfilling their mandate.

According to the United Nations, “Forests and trees store carbon, which helps mitigate the impacts of climate change in and around urban areas. Trees also improve the local climate, helping to save energy used for heating by 20-50 percent. Strategic placement of trees in urban areas can cool the air by up to 8 degrees Celsius, reducing air conditioning needs by 30 percent. Urban trees are excellent air filters, removing harmful pollutants in the air and fine particulates.”

The United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/67/200 on 21 December 2012, which declared that March 21 of each year is to be observed as the International Day of Forests. The resolution encourages all member states to organise activities relating to all types of forests.

Good!

The truth will always be told.

In the wake of the promotion of public primary school teachers in Edo State by Governor Godwin Obaseki, the teachers have thrown their weight behind the governor, stressing that the directive has brought them joy.

They said that the development would boost the morale of teachers and lead to better teaching and learning outcomes in public schools.

Governor Obaseki reiterated his commitment to teachers’ welfare when he announced the promotion directive, noting “The release of outstanding promotion of teachers in public primary schools in the state further demonstrate the commitment to the welfare of teachers in the state.”

He said, “As part of the reforms to improve the quality of basic education in the state, it is important to motivate teachers, especially as we roll out the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (BEST) programme.”

In reaction to the development, some teachers have commended the governor for the directive, noting that it was long overdue.

A teacher in Estako West Local Government, who doesn’t want her name in print, said, “the news of the promotion is highly commendable. The promotion is long overdue. I am happy as the promotion will motivate us to do more.”

She said while the affected teachers await the release of the promotion letters, it is necessary that the authorities monitor the conduct of some officials who might want to exploit the opportunity to fleece teachers.

According to her, “Much as we applaud the initiative, we want to ask that the Education Secretaries should not use the avenue to demand for money from teachers before the letters get to those of us expecting promotion. We do not want anyone to cut short our joy, as the governor is committed to improved welfare of teachers.”

According to another teacher in Obi Primary School, Uzebba, Owan West Local Government Area, Mr. Okun Dada Gabriel, “The approval of the governor for the release of promotion letters for teachers in primary school, covering three years is a step forward for the better.”

He said that teachers in the state expect more of such move from the governor, who has shown interest in improving primary education, which is the bedrock of education in Nigeria.

“We also use the opportunity to appeal to the governor to consider the promotion of other teachers, so that the joy will be spread evenly. With this move, teachers will be motivated to support the vision of the governor for primary education in the state.”

Who says Governor Obaseki is not pragmatic?

Prompt action... the earlier the better.

Group lauds Obaseki’s developmental strides, condemns vandalisation of public utilities

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Godwin Obaseki Support Group (GOSG), has decried the vandalisation of public properties in Edo State, warning that the trend would impede the infrastructural development being championed by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration.

In a communique issued after its State Working Committee meeting held in Benin City, the group commended the governor’s strides in infrastructural rebirth of the state, noting that the scope and nature of the projects would positively impact the lives of the people.

According to them, “We commend the governor for the laudable projects such as the ongoing revamp of Government Science and Technical College (GSTC), Benin City. We are confident that all ongoing projects in the state will be completed by the governor. The reconstructed Lucky Way in Benin City must also be protected by the public.

The group said the recent on-boarding programme for elected local councils’ officials will change the manner in which they conduct their affairs.

The GOSG noted that the sabotage was alarming given that the public projects are intended to provide for better quality of life for the people, adding, “This pattern is cause for concern. People should make effort to protect public utilities provided by government especially in public schools in the state. All hands must be on deck to achieve the vision to make Edo State great.”

Noting that there was need to fully support the governor’s efforts, the group said, “We cannot continue to tolerate and shield vandals of public utilities. The state governor is working tirelessly to develop the state, especially Obaseki’s effort to transform all educational institutions across the state. Saboteurs cannot be allowed to pull down the good works of the 'Wake and See' Governor.

“People in communities hosting public utilities and traditional institutions in such areas should make effort to secure and safeguard all public utilities in schools within their localities.”

They also appealed to other social institutions to guard against the vandalisation of public projects and urged “communities and traditional institutions across the state to take cue from the Omo 'N Oba, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin and take responsibility to protect facilities in public schools and public utilities.”

Photo:
Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Chief Taiwo Akerele (5th from left), with members of the GOSG, after their State Working Committee Meeting in Benin City, Edo State.

…‘Benin Monarch’s curses, final blow to traffickers’


The wife of the Governor of Edo State, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, has reiterated the need for collaboration among relevant stakeholders to ensure that the incidence of human trafficking comes to a stop in Edo State.

Receiving the Face of Oba Ewuare II Foundation, and the Secretaries to the Oba of Benin and the Benin Traditional Council at the Government House, in Benin City, the Edo State capital, Mrs Obaseki said she was ready to partner with Oba Ewuare II’ s foundation to boost the fight against human slavery.

The First Lady harped on the need for young girls in Edo State to develop their untapped talent and skills, instead of leaving the country for greener pastures illegally.

She said the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II’s stance on the issues and the subsequent curse placed on traffickers and others connected to the ugly practice was a welcome development.

She said the move will go a long way in liberating Edo girls that are still in Libya and other countries, and give them the courage to come back home and shun the threats of the traffickers.

She explained that one of her pet projects, the Betsy Obaseki’s After School Club, is an initiative geared to empower young girls and provide them with requisite skills to become self-reliant.

This, she said, will ensure that the girls do not succumb to the deceitful tactics of traffickers, who give them the impression that life will be better in foreign countries.

She added that the workshops would be held across senatorial districts, where secondary school girls can build capacity in automobile repairs and shoemaking, after school hours.

The First Lady expressed readiness to partner the Oba Ewuare II Foundation in the fight against human trafficking and modern-day slavery, adding that the partnership will positively impact the Edo girl-child.

"It is good to know that you are planning to take up the most important problem we are currently facing in the state. This initiative will add to efforts to reduce the scourge of modern-day slavery in Edo State. It is such a huge problem that the federal and state governments cannot solve alone,” she added.

Noting that the Oba Ewuare II’s curses on traffickers were pertinent, she said, “All hands must be on deck to solve this problem and it is so gratifying to find out that the Oba is so supportive of the present government. What the Oba has done is the biggest blow against the perpetrators of human trafficking.

“The Oba's action will open the eyes of the people because when people hear that Oba intervened in this manner, those that were supportive, one way or the other, will now have a rethink and wake up."

The Face of the Oba Ewuare II Foundation, Miss Ifueko Aideyan, explained that the foundation is focused on rehabilitating and reintegrating trafficked girls into the society.

According to her, this will be done through capacity building in bead making, sculpting and carpentry.

She stated that most of the trafficked girls are between the ages of fourteen and twenty years, hence the need for seminars and awareness programmes for youths.

Image One:
Wife of Edo State Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki (middle); Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Maryann Shaibu (second right); Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council, Mr. Frank Erabor (right); Secretary to Oba Ewuare II, Mr. Eseosa Erevbanarue (left); and Face of the Oba Ewuare II Foundation, Miss Ifueko Aideyan (second left), during the courtesy visit by the Face of Oba Ewuare II Foundation with the Secretaries to the Oba of Benin and the Benin Traditional Council, to the First Lady, at the Government House, in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Forward ever for Edo State....

josh123:
Show us result

visit EdoJobs portal, just to mention one on job creation.

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has expressed his gratitude to God and Edo people for their prayers, following the news of the accident involving a bus attached to the Press Unit of the Edo State Government House, on Wednesday, in Ugbowo area of Benin City, wishing the accident victims speedy recovery.

“I received the news of the accident with great shock, especially when I learnt that a mother and her child of five years of age were involved. We are praying fervently for the quick recovery of everyone involved in the accident.

“Thankfully, no life was lost. We have taken over the care of the child and his mother and other victims, we are in touch with the management of University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where they are receiving treatment,” Obaseki said.

He added that the few journalists that sustained injuries in the accident have been discharged after routine checks and treatment.

The governor said he was moved by the torrent of messages and calls from friends, family members, Edo people and residents in general, to him, enquiring about the incident.

“The calls and messages from people showed how much value we place on our common humanity as accidents can happen to anyone, irrespective of class and status. I appreciate the love and as a government, we will continue to do our best to transform the lives of Edo people and residents,” he added.

Shortly after the accident on Wednesday, Special Adviser to the governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, issued a press statement explaining the incident.

He assured that an official of the state government was sent to the hospital to ascertain the degree of injuries sustained by the victims and interface with the doctors managing the victims.

Obaseki is really working!

Suniyamu:
Internal grumbling of the People Dwelling in Problems

Well summed!

…as dealers revert to N145

Edo State Commissioner for Minerals, Oil and Gas, Mr. Joseph Ugheoke, has commended Independent Marketers of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Benin metropolis for complying with the stipulated pump price of N145 per litre.

Ugheoke gave the commendation after the monitoring of petrol stations in Benin City, Edo State capital.

“The monitoring team from the Ministry of Minerals, Oil and Gas was set up by the state government to enforce compliance with the approved pump price of N145 per litre for independent marketers. The team will ensure that any erring marketer will be made to face the law,” he said.

The commissioner, who led the team on the monitoring exercise, said “across the stations visited within Benin metropolis, we found that the marketers are complying with the state government’s directive to dispense PMS to motorists at N145.00 per litre.

“The exercise would be continuous across the state. It will be extended to marketers in Edo North and Central Senatorial districts.”

He added that the team is also charged with the responsibility of monitoring the supply of PMS distributed to marketers in the state, adding, “Any marketer dispensing PMS above the approved pump price of N145per litre will be sanctioned as the state government will not hesitate to seal up erring stations.

“Such marketers would be charged to court and their products sold off to customers. Government is ready to make a scapegoat of any marketer who flouts the directive.”

.

Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki has assured that infrastructure development will get to all local government councils in the state, even as he promised the people of Akoko Edo Local Government Area of accelerated completion of the ongoing construction of a 3.5km-long road project in Ugboshi Afe community.

The road, it was learnt, was tarred by the late Premier of the then Western Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, over 60 years ago, but has since been abandoned.

Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele, who represented the governor during the site tour, at the weekend, said that the project is being delivered in a fashion that belies the ‘wake and see’ approach to governance championed by Governor Obaseki

According to him, “I appeal to communities in the state to remain calm as Mr Governor is gradually fulfilling all his promises from one local council to another.

“It is regrettable that the people of Ugboshi Afe have had to wait for so long for this road to be constructed. But we assure them that not only will this road be constructed, but it will be delivered in good time.”

“The 3.5km-long abandoned road is being constructed by EDSG public works programme at an accelerated pace and will be completed before the end of May 2018,” he added.

The people of the community said they are delighted that the governor has extended the infrastructural imprints to them, noting that the state is better off with the dogged approach to delivering on the dividends of democracy.

A member of the community, who doesn’t want his name in print, said that the project took members of the community by surprised, thanking governor Obaseki for the good gesture.

He said, “We celebrate the arrival of the Obaseki ‘wake and see’ miracle train to our community, 60 years after Chief Obafemi Awolowo tarred this road.”

PHOTO 1
Representative of the Governor of Edo State and his Chief of Staff, Chief Taiwo Akerele (third from right), during the tour of ongoing construction of a 3.5km-long road in Ugboshi Afe community, Akoko Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, at the weekend.

...Obaseki hails far-reaching orders


The Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has said his administration has aligned with the Benin Monarch’s far-reaching decisions and royal pronouncements on human trafficking, cultism and other crimes.

At a well-attended meeting of chiefs, dukes, native doctors, priests and priestesses with the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, on Friday, the Benin Monarch placed curses on the people perpetrating human trafficking in the state.

The Benin Monarch also extended the curses to killer gangs and cult groups, armed robbers who have been unleashing terror on innocent people in the state and causing mayhem in the name of cult activities.

He nullified all oaths administered by human traffickers through their collaborators; native doctors and priests, on victims of the inhuman trade, with a directive that victims of human trafficking are now free from any spiritual oath.

He directed the trafficked persons to speak out and name their slave masters and mistresses and seek help if need be.

Obaseki, who hailed the directives of Oba Ewuare II, noted that "the royal intervention would check the menace of human trafficking."

He urged the priests, priestesses and native doctors who have been aiding human trafficking in any way, to desist forthwith.

"As a government, we have tremendous respect for all Edo people and residents in the state as well as their religious convictions. But we will not accept the perpetration of crime and evil in the name of religion and will not condone any form of support for inhuman practices such as human trafficking."

He added: "With Oba Ewuare II's pronouncements, we expect that those people who have been aiding these traffickers would, in their own interest, withdraw their support and focus on their calling. We will not spare anyone irrespective of their religious convictions, when caught.

"We are working with the federal government through the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to arrest and jail traffickers and their collaborators. We have a law in the works that will further strengthen this fight and this administration will go after anyone that dares the laws."

MaryOz:
If they like, let them give him millions, Edo people can never be deceived again by PDP.

You've said it all Mary. Thanks!

On APC we stand in this state. They are simply wasting their money.

...As Well as Passage of Edo Property Devt. Agency Bill.

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has urged members of the Edo State House of Assembly to expedite work on the bill for a law to prohibit trafficking in persons and establish the Edo State Task Force against Trafficking in Persons.

The Bill which was sent to the EDHA in January, is part of government’s efforts to institutionalise the fight against human trafficking in the state.

According to Obaseki, “The state government has adopted a multipronged approach which includes a law, aggressive campaigns at markets and across the broad spectrum of the media, stakeholder engagements, partnerships with the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and international governments and bodies, in tackling the menace.”

He also appealed to the lawmakers to accelerate action on the Bill for the establishment of the Edo State Development and Property Agency which the governor said will revolutionise the state’s housing sector.

“The state government envisions a robust housing sector with huge private sector investment that will address the housing and infrastructural deficit in the state. We are ready to replicate best practices in the built industry to ensure that standards in the industry are adhered to across the value chain,” he said.

The first reading of the EDPA Bill was read on the floor of the house last Monday, after which it was referred to the House Committee on Infrastructure and Rules, Business and Government House for further legislative input.

Similarly, the EDHA earlier in the week, commenced the clause-by-clause consideration of the Bill for a Law to prohibit trafficking in persons and establish the Edo State Task Force Against Trafficking in Persons.

The Edo State Government through its job creation initiative, EdoJobs, has launched a skills development programme to prepare unemployed youths in the state for employment opportunities and as employers of labour.

Addressing journalists during a press conference to announce the launch of the programme, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Skill Acquisition and Job Creation, Ukinebo Dare, said “Through the skills development programme, the Godwin Obaseki-led administration has been attracting investors that have need for highly skilled manpower to the state.”

She explained that the state government is partnering with organisations that are specialised in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), mobile phone and laptop repairs, automobile mechanics among others, to train youths across the three senatorial districts in the state.

The training she said, “is designed in such a way that some programmes have stipend packages, start-up packs while others have business support packages for trainees. The programme will also address the needs of the participating business partners and individuals.”

Ukinebo added that youths will be trained in various skills to meet the increasing demands for highly skilled workforce in the state.

“The objective of the programme is to enable the state government prepare youths as entrepreneurs and employers of labour in line with the vision of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to create 200,000 jobs.”

Ukinebo said that the programme is open to youths who are indigenes and those who reside in the state, adding, “The programme will enhance the employability of youths and enable them maximise their potential. It will prepare the youths for different job opportunities. Those trained will be matched with employers who have vacancies in the state through the Edojobs portal.

“The programme will assist the state government supply employers skilled labour force as the EdoJobs initiative has grown from a job matching to job creation platform.”

One of the partners of the programme, Slot Academy, represented by Collins Uwadiae, said, “Slot Academy is partnering with Edo State Government to complement the strides of Governor Obaseki in creating jobs for youths. The Academy will train the youths at zero cost to prepare youths as entrepreneurs.

Chief Inspector of IFEST Foundation, another partner, Engr. Anthony Okogue, said: “IFEST Foundation is partnering with EdoJobs to render technical and vocational training in motor and vehicle mechanic. We are partnering with Edojobs to train Edo youths in modern motor and vehicle mechanics.”

Also in attendance were beneficiaries of skills development programmes organised by EdoJobs.

Isioma Deborah said the programme has helped her with knowledge of branding and packaging which she is applying in her business. "Before the training, I was just doing my normal business but with the help of EdoJobs' partners I have been able to put my business on several social media platforms and my customers are increasing. I really appreciate them,” she said.

Similarly, Loveth Osagie, who is undergoing training in fashion design said the programme has helped her discover her innate abilities.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media
Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki

1st Photo:
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Skill Acquisition and Job Creation, Ukinebo Dare (middle in red/black, seated), with partners and beneficiaries of EdoJobs, during the launching of Skills Development Programme by EdoJobs, in Benin City, on Thursday, March 8, 2018.

...Believes Monarch’s Parley with Priests, Native Doctors will Boost Fight Against Human Trafficking

The Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has commended the initiative of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, to engage all priests, priestesses, native doctors, traditional chiefs, market women and village heads on ways to curb human trafficking, kidnapping and other security challenges in the state.

In a press release issued by the Benin Traditional Council and published in major national newspapers, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, invited junior and senior priests and priestesses, native doctors of all manifestations, traditional religious groups, all Benin chiefs and dukes, village heads, all market women leaders, directors and officials of NAPTIP amongst others, to an emergency meeting on Friday, March 9, 2018, at the Oba’s Palace to deliberate on ways of tackling human trafficking, kidnapping and other security challenges in the state.

According to Obaseki, “the initiative is commendable, it is a royal endorsement of the state government’s fight against human trafficking, illegal migration and other crimes in the state.

“Those who know the factors fuelling human trafficking and illegal migration will appreciate the wisdom behind this meeting that His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has called. Some traditional priests, priestesses and native doctors have valuable ideas and inputs that we need to develop a robust bouquet of strategies that we will use to finally bring an end to this modern day slavery and criminal trade in humans.”

He added that he was confident that after the meeting at the Royal Palace on Friday, “some priests and native doctors will adjust their ways because there are instances where some of these priests and native doctors have breached their codes of practice and are involved in the illegal trade.”

The governor noted that “As a government, we could not have asked for a better deal from the Oba of Benin. He is rich in wisdom and always there to offer his support to us. I am excited about the meeting, especially with the apex anti-human trafficking agency, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) scheduled to attend.”

He maintained that it was time for all Edo people and friends of the state to come out and proffer workable solutions to the crisis.

“It is time to be frank about this crisis and tackle it with all we have. We cannot continue to fold our arms and watch as we lose the most productive class of our population to human trafficking and illegal migration.”

Obaseki assured that the emerging Edo State under his leadership is committed to harnessing the human resources of the state through technical education, skills acquisition programmes and employment creation so that the people can live decent lives and do jobs that are dignifying and more rewarding in the long-run.

“We are setting the stage for socially and legally approved enterprises and ventures that will keep our creative youths at home and contribute to nation building. We have committed the last one year of our administration to industrialising the state and things can only get better,” he assured.

PHOTO1
The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki

PHOTO2
The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II N' Ogidigan

[s]

new2012:
Illegitimate coucil leaders.. Illegitimize by the boycott of the opposition...


When you have no opposition, no voters, no protest, just rule, do ur worse and people enjoy that?

[/s]

You don't seem to know what you are talking about.

Nobody asked your invisible PDP to boycott the election. Other political parties contested except your PDP that is not presently on ground in Edo state.

He is really working!

You need to take out time to visit Edo and see things for yourself.

…Says Obaseki prioritises wellbeing of Edo people

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, has said that the Godwin Obaseki led-administration remains committed to implementing economic policies that will create wealth for Edo people and self-sustenance through aggressive Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) drive.

Shaibu made this submission during an interview with journalists in Benin City, Edo State capital.

The deputy governor said, “The Godwin Obaseki led-administration prioritises economic policies that will spur growth, wealth creation and prosperity for Edo people.

“These policies are targeted at reducing the rate of poverty and unemployment. The long-term economic plan of the state governor is to create wealth and prosperity for Edo people.”

He said the state’s economic model is targeted at driving economic growth and sustainability, noting, “with our policies, we intend to achieve self-sustainability for the state where proceeds from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will be used to drive economic growth and prosperity for Edo people without depending on the allocation from the Federation Account to drive social growth and development.”

Shaibu maintained that “When we have fully achieved this, proceeds from the Federation Account will be considered an addition, just like grants from donor agencies.”

He assured that the state government is committed to opening up the economic space in the state and creating avenues for more people to participate in economic activities.

“The state government's economic blueprint is also directed at opening the economy to encourage the participation of more people to contribute to economic growth.

“We intend to capture more Edo people in the quest for development, so as not to burden few people with taxes. This measure will improve revenue generation. When the economy is open, more people will be captured in the tax net and the tax burden will be spread. We are interested in reducing the tax burden on few persons,” he said.

Nigeriadondie1:
What is needed is not some useless campaign but real govt programmes that would make life worth living for people so that the search for greener pastures becomes unattractive even without a campaign.
If the youths can’t get better life at home then useless campaigns would not deter them from making any move out of the shiithole.

There are good programs already on ground to get the youths empowered to make their own living here. The agribusiness empowerment and by-back is there and has already engaged many. The skills acquisition programs are there, lady mechanic initiative is there, just to mention but a few.

See this link for an example; https://www.nairaland.com/4377298/fg-edo-synergise-boost-youth

...

...As 121 Graduate From Skills Acquisition Programme.

The Federal Government has revealed plans to partner with Edo state to boost youth empowerment in the South-South and South-East geo-political zones, as not less than 121 youths graduated from a capacity building workshop organised for youths in the zones.

Minister of Youths and Sports, Barr. Solomon Dalung, who addressed the beneficiaries trained under the National Youth Empowerment Programme (NYEP) at Okada, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo state, said the programme is intended to encourage entrepreneurship.

The youths were trained on cosmetology, bead making, aquaculture, piggery, cassava processing and value addition, as well as interior decoration and event management.

According to Dalung, “The objective of the NYEP is to encourage entrepreneurship among youths as well as provide avenue for youths from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds to bond and collaborate in proffering solutions to issues affecting the country.”

He added that the NYEP was initiated by the Ministry of Youths and Sports in 2015 to serve as capacity building programme for youths on agro-allied, vocational skills and entrepreneurial skills.

"The empowerment programme is designed to solve the problem of unemployment among youths as it intends to expose youths to skills and knowledge that will make them entrepreneurs. An empowered youth with a sustainable means of livelihood will not only create jobs but also contribute to peace and security in the country.”

Edo State Commissioner for Youths and Special Duties, Hon. Mike Amanokha, commended the Federal Government for the empowerment programme, noting “The state looks forward to collaborating with the Federal Government to empower more youths in the state.”

Amanokha charged the beneficiaries to make good use of the skills acquired as they have displayed commitment during the course of the programme. "I believe you will put to good use the knowledge and skills acquired,” he added.

PHOTO
Minister of Youths and Sports, Barr. Solomon Dalung (right); Commissioner for Youths and Special Duties, Mika Amanokha (2nd right) and a beneficiary of the National Youths Empowerment Programme (NYEP) (left), receiving his certificate of completion of training at Okada, Ovia North East, Edo State.

We are moving for greatness; thanks to Obaseki.

APC is on ground here without being told.

We are happy with APC in Edo. Lets move on my people.