The Kogi State Government has launched a youth skills development programme aimed at transforming young people from job seekers into job creators through specialised training in mining and jewellery craftsmanship.
The Kogi Youth Mining and Jewellery Craftsmanship Empowerment Programme was inaugurated by Governor Usman Ododo, who said the initiative would equip participants with globally competitive technical skills across the mining and jewellery value chain while unlocking the state’s vast solid mineral potential for sustainable economic growth.
According to Ododo, the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to building a generation of entrepreneurs capable of creating jobs and driving economic prosperity.
“Our objective is not to give you temporary assistance but to equip you with lifelong skills that will make you financially independent, create employment for others, and contribute meaningfully to the economy of our state and our nation,” he said.
Addressing the first batch of beneficiaries, the governor urged them to maximise the opportunity, noting that the training would prepare them to compete successfully in both local and international markets.
“I encourage you to take this opportunity seriously. The knowledge and technical skills you will acquire here will position you to compete favourably in both domestic and international markets,” he added.
The programme is being implemented in partnership with Malivelihood, the state’s technical partner, to develop a skilled workforce capable of adding value to Kogi’s mineral resources through processing and jewellery production.
The empowerment initiative targets young people from across the state and forms part of the government’s broader strategy to harness Kogi’s 32 commercially viable solid minerals to generate employment, stimulate industrial development, and create sustainable wealth for residents.
