The Federal Government has inaugurated a free skills acquisition programme for 100 trainees in Badagry, aimed at empowering youths with practical skills in aquaculture and agriculture.
The training is being implemented under the World Bank-supported Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) initiative, a component of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme.
Mrs. Blessing Ogwu, National Project Coordinator of IDEAS/TVET, said each trainee would receive a monthly stipend of ₦22,500 throughout the six-month programme.
The initiative is being executed by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with SejFarms Consults Ltd.
Ogwu explained that 100 young Nigerians would be trained in aquaculture and agriculture, with SejFarms Consults providing technical support.
“This initiative marks a pivotal step in our national efforts to empower young Nigerians with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in a fast-evolving world,” she said.
“Through this programme, we reaffirm our commitment to tackling unemployment, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusive development across all regions.
“To our training service provider, we appreciate your professionalism and dedication — you are not just facilitators; you are nation builders.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Sejiro Oke-Tojinu, Managing Director of SejFarms Consults Ltd., said most participants are agriculture graduates who will become better farmers and contributors to the nation’s food security agenda.
He explained that the training would comprise three months of practical sessions and three months of internship, after which participants would have access to mentorship, job placements, and business support opportunities.
Mr. Nurudeen Tiamiyu, Coordinator of the programme, noted that the training would equip participants with hands-on skills to function effectively across the agriculture value chain.
Also speaking, Mr. Peter Dansu, media aide to Prince Sesi Whingan, member of the House of Representatives for Badagry Federal Constituency, urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity to become professional farmers.
Similarly, Mr. Augustine Kiki, representing Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, encouraged participants to utilise the training for self-reliance and personal growth.
One of the beneficiaries, Miss Abosede Alfred, a graduate of Agriculture from Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, commended the government for the initiative, saying the training would enhance their aquaculture and agribusiness skills.
