Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a ₦1 billion Youth Empowerment Scheme in Maiduguri, describing it as a strategic investment in human capital development and sustainable economic growth, today Friday at Sir Kashim Ibrahim College of Education Theater Hall Maiduguri.
Speaking at the event, Governor Zulum said the initiative goes beyond financial support, noting that it is designed to restore dignity, renew hope, and strengthen the economic base of the state, particularly among youths and small-scale entrepreneurs.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human capital development, stressing that the true wealth of any society lies in the skills, creativity, and determination of its people.
He highlighted key youth-focused interventions, including the establishment of vocational training centres, recruitment of youths into the State Transport Management Agency, and the Rural Youth Empowerment Scheme, which has supported thousands of beneficiaries across the state.
Governor Zulum also disclosed that his administration has sponsored youths to study aircraft piloting and aeronautical engineering, adding that over 400 youths are currently pursuing postgraduate studies abroad.
According to the Governor, more than 5,000 youths will benefit from the current empowerment programme, which includes training in financial management, digital skills, modern business practices, and customer relations to ensure sustainable impact.
He emphasized that the scheme is an investment, not a handout, urging beneficiaries to utilize the funds responsibly and serve as mentors within their communities.
Governor Zulum assured that similar organisations, including road transport workers’ associations, will receive government support in due course, while calling on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
A breakdown of the ₦1 billion fund shows that 28 beneficiaries under Group A received ₦1 million each, 189 beneficiaries under Group B received ₦300,000 each, 835 beneficiaries under Group C received ₦100,000 each, while about 3,500 apprentices also received ₦100,000 each. The cost of equipment stood at ₦451.9 million, with logistics and resource packages costing ₦31.86 million.
Governor Zulum expressed confidence that disbursement would commence immediately and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring livelihoods, strengthening the economy, and securing a prosperous future for all.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Youth Empowerment, Comrade Saina Buba, commended the Governor for the initiative, noting that the programme covers almost all Local Government Areas of Borno State.
