Zulum disburses N1bn, trains 1,050 youths on GSM repairs – Tribune Online
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a N1 billion empowerment package aimed at strengthening youth livelihoods across the state, with a major focus on GSM repairers, technicians and apprentices.
Under the initiative, 1,050 youths will be trained in phone repairs and maintenance, while about 3,000 other apprentices will receive direct cash support.
Each of the GSM trainees will be provided with a full set of modern working tools to enhance their businesses. The equipment includes an 852D hot air rework station, KC2025 separating machine, S2025 Pro battery booster, V900C adjustable temperature soldering iron, DT9205Plus digital multimeter and a 60-in-1 precision screwdriver set.
In addition to the tools, the trainees will also receive cash support as seed capital to kick-start their ventures.
The disbursement covers four categories of beneficiaries: the first category comprises 26 beneficiaries, each receiving N1 million; the second includes 189 beneficiaries, each receiving N300,000; the third consists of 835 beneficiaries, each receiving N100,000; while the fourth category covers about 3,500 apprentices, each receiving N100,000 alongside different calibres of working tools. The total cost of the training programme is N482 million.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Maiduguri, Zulum said the programme underscores his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development.
“It gives me immense pleasure and a deep sense of fulfilment to stand before you today on this historic occasion — the official launch of the disbursement of the N1 billion empowerment scheme alongside the training of operators at the GSM Market here in Maiduguri,” he said.
The governor recalled other human capital development initiatives of his administration, including the sponsorship of 200 youths to study aircraft piloting and aeronautical engineering at Isaac Balami University.
“This initiative is designed to place Borno State on the global aviation map and to demonstrate that, despite our challenges, we are preparing our youths for world-class opportunities. The process is almost completed,” he added.
Zulum further disclosed that about 400 Borno State indigenes are currently pursuing PhD and master’s degree programmes abroad, while an additional 100 youths are studying Medicine and related courses in China.
The event was attended by the senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan; members of the House of Representatives; the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Engr. Abdullahi Askira; as well as commissioners and other senior government officials.
