Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has launched a N1 billion youth empowerment program targeting GSM repairers, technicians, and apprentices across the state.
The initiative includes technical training for 1,050 youths in phone repairs and maintenance, alongside cash support for about 3,000 other apprentices.
The program was unveiled on Friday at the GSM Market in Maiduguri as part of the state government’s efforts to expand livelihoods and reduce youth unemployment.
Each of the 1,050 trainees will receive a full set of modern repair tools to strengthen their businesses.
The tools include hot air rework stations, separating machines, battery boosters, soldering irons, digital multimeters, and precision screwdriver sets.
In addition to the equipment, all trainees will receive direct cash support to serve as seed capital.
The disbursement was structured into four categories based on beneficiary groups.
The first category consists of 26 beneficiaries, each receiving N1 million.
The second category includes 189 beneficiaries, each receiving N300,000.
The third category covers 835 beneficiaries, each receiving N100,000.
The fourth category targets 3,500 apprentices, each receiving N100,000 alongside different calibers of working tools.
The total cost of the training component was put at N482 million.
Speaking at the launch, Zulum said the program was aimed at empowering youths with skills and resources to become self-reliant.
He said the initiative reflects his administration’s focus on human capital development despite ongoing security and economic challenges.
The governor also recalled other youth-focused investments by his administration.
He said the state recently sponsored 200 youths to study aircraft piloting and aeronautic engineering at Isaac Balami University.
Zulum said the initiative was designed to position Borno State on the global aviation map and open world-class opportunities for its youths.
He added that about 400 Borno State indigenes are currently pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees abroad.
The governor said another 100 youths are studying medicine and related courses in China under government sponsorship.
The event was attended by the senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan, members of the House of Representatives, and senior state officials.
Also present were the deputy speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira, commissioners, and other top government officials.
The empowerment scheme is expected to boost small-scale businesses and expand economic opportunities for young people across Borno State.
