A total of 720 out-of-school adolescents – 360 boys and 360 girls – have successfully completed a two-month vocational training programme in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, acquiring practical skills in shoemaking and bag-making.
The initiative, implemented by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in partnership with UNICEF Kaduna Field Office and the Eleva Foundation, is designed to promote self-reliance, personal development, and economic empowerment among vulnerable youths.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Kaduna State Director of NOA, Danjuma Makama, explained that the programme is part of broader efforts to strengthen child protection services and reduce youth vulnerability.
“We selected Anguwan Juma in Zaria LGA as the pilot community after training 50 community leaders across five LGAs on enhancing child protection structures at the grassroots,” Makama said.
He added that the names of the 720 beneficiaries would be entered into the Kaduna State Social Register, with plans to reintegrate them into formal education.
Makama also appealed to the Kaduna State Government and development partners to support the graduates by providing starter packs or assisting them in establishing small businesses.
UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Dr Gerida Birukila, represented by Child Protection Specialist Dr Wilfred Mamah, said the programme responded to the urgent need for adolescent empowerment in the state.
“A 2022 survey conducted by UNICEF and the Kaduna State Government revealed that over 300,000 adolescent girls and Almajirai are in desperate need of protection and opportunities,” Birukila said. “By equipping them with relevant skills, we are helping to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability.”
She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of children through practical interventions.
The Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, who was present at the event, commended UNICEF and its partners for their investment in youth development. He stressed the importance of sustaining such initiatives across the Zaria Emirate and the wider Kaduna State.
Outstanding participants received certificates and starter packs—including sewing machines and essential tools—to help launch their entrepreneurial careers.
The event marks a significant step in addressing youth unemployment and building a generation of self-sufficient, skilled young Nigerians.
