By Joyce Ekeh
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a N1.05 billion empowerment programme targeting seven groups in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area, as part of efforts to expand economic opportunities for vulnerable residents.
Zulum launched the programme on Friday at the State Hotels, Maiduguri, saying the intervention was designed to support youths, women, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and other vulnerable groups as the state continues its recovery from years of Boko Haram insurgency.
The governor said his administration remained committed to creating opportunities that would enable young people to earn a living and contribute productively to the state’s economy.
“Today, we are launching another empowerment programme for seven groups to boost business and economic opportunities in our dear state, which is recovering from years of Boko Haram conflict,” Zulum said.
He also announced plans for a larger empowerment programme targeting women, youths and other entrepreneurs before the end of the month.
Zulum said young people remained a major priority of his administration, stressing that government would continue to provide opportunities for them to become economically productive.
“I consider every young person in this state as my son. That is why I am committed to providing every opportunity to ensure that you prosper and become productive members of society,” he added.
The beneficiaries of the latest intervention include clubs and associations, persons with physical disabilities, persons with hearing impairment, persons with visual impairment, persons affected by leprosy and youth groups.
The Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Economic Empowerment, Hon. Saina Buba, commended the governor for what he described as the administration’s sustained empowerment initiatives for youths and other vulnerable groups.
Buba said the various programmes had contributed significantly to improving the livelihoods of beneficiaries across the state.
The event was attended by the APC governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio; the member representing Marte/Monguno/Nganzai Federal Constituency, Engr. Bukar Talba; members of the Borno State House of Assembly; the Acting Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; commissioners and other dignitaries.
