Some mobile repair technicians in Dutse, Jigawa, have called for a vocational skills development program to enhance their work and promote growth in the trade.
Phone repair is gaining popularity as an alternative livelihood for youths in the area.
A cross-section of technicians shared their views in separate interviews with reporters on Thursday in Dutse.
Usman Idris, a phone repair technician, said the trade provides him with technical skills, income opportunities, and a platform to train apprentices.
He described phone repair as a viable path to self-reliance and economic empowerment.
Idris recalled acquiring his skills in Kano before moving to Dutse, where he found more opportunities.
The income from the trade has also allowed him to pursue Islamic and formal education.
“After coming to Dutse for Islamic studies, I decided to use my skills instead of relying solely on my parents. Today, the trade supports my education and livelihood. I also have two apprentices under my supervision,” he said.
Idris emphasized that phone repair is a knowledge-based trade requiring proper training and discipline.
He warned against unqualified practitioners, stressing that technicians operate within established guidelines to minimize disputes and improve service.
Another technician, Hassan Sale, said the profession has enabled him to acquire additional skills, including servicing power banks, Bluetooth devices, and accessories.
Sale identified customer perceptions of repair charges as a major challenge.
“Some customers watch the repair process and think it’s easy. When billed, they feel it’s too much for what they see as a simple task,” he explained.
Abdulkarim Muhammad noted that the profession offers opportunities for youths willing to learn and engage in productive activities.
He highlighted the strong culture of cooperation among technicians, where they contribute money collectively to compensate owners if a phone is mistakenly exchanged or lost.
“This spirit of unity has built trust among practitioners and customers,” he said.
Muhammad expressed his hope to establish his own workshop and urged the Jigawa government to support vocational skills development.
“Phone repair is a viable means of youth empowerment,” he added.
A customer, Bello Mukhtar, praised the technicians for their professionalism and reliability.
“I have patronized local phone technicians for a long time, and I’ve never had any problems,” he said.
