ASHENEWS reports that the Niger State Government has trained and equipped 50 youths with essential skills in livestock entrepreneurship.
This is part of the state’s broader effort to promote agriculture and reduce youth unemployment.
Speaking during the two-day training held across the state, the Director of Animal Production in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Dr. Mohammed Abbas, said the programme was designed to address the knowledge gap among young people already involved in livestock farming.
“Many of our youths are engaged in livestock keeping but lack the basic knowledge required to make it a profitable venture,” Abbas said.
“We’re teaching them how to manage their resources financially and build successful livestock businesses.”
He noted that the government has identified agriculture as a key area capable of transforming the state’s economy and improving livelihoods.
Abbas said that the programme is one of the several initiatives under Niger State’s renewed focus on agricultural development and youth empowerment.
According to him, the state plans to train at least 1,000 youths in livestock production by the end of 2025 adding that participants will also receive starter kits to help them implement what they’ve learned.
Also speaking at the event, Niger State Coordinator for the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Godswill Aguiyi, said the initiative is aimed at moving youths away from the labour market and exposing them to the vast potential within agriculture and livestock.
AGRA is working in partnership with the Niger State Ministries of Agriculture and Livestock to build the capacity of youths, women, and ministry staff, Aguiyi added.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Mathew Ahmed, commended AGRA for supporting the programme with a grant, noting that the training would not only benefit participants but also boost interest in agriculture and livestock among young people in the state.
He encouraged the trainees to put their new knowledge into action and make effective use of the government’s support.
“Be exceptional and make wise use of the resources you’ll be given,” he urged.
During the training, participants were introduced to the economics of livestock production, particularly sheep, goats, cattle, and poultry. Other areas covered included business development, financial management, accessing finance, pasture development, and modern feed formulation.
