BUA Cement Nigeria Plc has graduated 60 youths from its host communities in Sokoto State after completing a six-month intensive training programme in heavy-duty machine operations, with 52 of the beneficiaries securing automatic employment with the company.
The graduates were presented with certificates on Wednesday at the end of the skills acquisition programme, which was designed to equip young people with technical expertise and improve their chances of securing sustainable employment.
As part of the empowerment initiative, each of the 60 participants received a monthly allowance of N150,000 throughout the duration of the training.
The programme is part of BUA Cement’s continued commitment to supporting host communities through capacity building, job creation and human capital development.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, praised BUA Cement for its contribution to reducing unemployment and creating opportunities for young people.
The governor said the private sector had a major role to play in addressing unemployment, while urging the beneficiaries to remain committed and become worthy representatives of their families and communities.
“Sokoto State Government is committed to creating ensuring an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. And that will allow our youths and women reach their full potentials. The state will continue to encourage initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, innovation and vocational training for sustained livelihoods,” he said.
He advised the graduates to consider themselves privileged and urged them to contribute positively to the growth of BUA Cement while maintaining good conduct at their workplaces.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of BUA Cement Plc, Engr. Yusuf Haliru Binji, said the initiative reflected the company’s commitment to improving the employability of people from its host communities.
Binji, who was represented by the Assistant Director, Administration and Corporate Affairs, Alhaji Sada Sulieman, said BUA Cement would continue to invest in programmes aimed at empowering communities and creating opportunities for young Nigerians.
According to him, the graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of the trainees’ achievement but also a demonstration of the company’s belief in skills development as a tool for tackling unemployment and poverty.
“The event is not just to celebrate the graduation of the youths but also an empowerment programme that gives hope as skills acquisition remained one of the most effective in addressing unemployment, reduce poverty, and promote economic inclusivity,” Binji said.
Earlier, the Chairman of Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Hon. Umar Mohammed Dundaye, commended BUA Cement for its numerous developmental interventions in the state, describing the company’s contributions in human, economic and educational development as commendable.
He expressed appreciation to the company for its continued support to the people of Sokoto State.
