The Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a ₦2 billion starter-pack initiative to empower 2,970 graduates of vocational training programmes, marking a significant step in tackling unemployment and poverty in the state.
At a ceremony held at the Muna Vocational Enterprises Institute (MVEI) in Maiduguri, the beneficiaries received business enterprise kits and starter packs designed to enable them to establish their own businesses and become self-employed.
The graduates were drawn from nine modern vocational training institutes across the three senatorial districts of Borno State, which provide instruction in high-demand skills such as information and communication technology (ICT), plumbing, construction, tailoring, welding, and other artisan trades.
Addressing the graduates, Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, particularly for those affected by the decade-long insurgency waged by Boko Haram.
“One of the cardinal priorities of this administration has been youth empowerment and the protection of vulnerable members of our society,” he said. “We remain mindful of the devastating effects of insurgency on our communities, which disrupted livelihoods, increased unemployment and exposed many to economic hardship. This made it imperative for the government to implement sustainable interventions aimed at restoring dignity, creating opportunities and rebuilding productive capacity.”
Zulum noted that his administration has established five vocational enterprise institutes in Muna, Mafa, Biu, Shani, and Magumeri, and reactivated nine vocational training centres. It has also set up three second-chance skills and entrepreneurship schools dedicated to women and girls in the southern senatorial district.
The governor emphasised that the institutes prioritise the enrolment of vulnerable individuals, especially those affected by insurgency, and offer structured training designed to enhance employability and economic independence.
“I am pleased to state that this administration has invested over ₦40 billion in the establishment, rehabilitation and equipping of vocational enterprise institutes, vocational training centres and technical colleges across Borno State,” Zulum said.
The investment is part of a broader strategy to reduce the number of out-of-school youths, promote self-reliance, and develop a skilled workforce capable of contributing to both the state and national economy through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The Commissioner for Education, Mr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, described the programme as a product of the governor’s visionary leadership. “This initiative reflects the unwavering commitment of His Excellency to empowering youths with practical, employable and entrepreneurial skills necessary for sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
