By Daniel Abe
Over 200 youths from Ijero, Ekiti West, and Efon Local Government Areas have participated in a skills acquisition training programme sponsored by the lawmaker representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II Hon. Biodun Omoleye.
The training, held in Ijurin and Aramoko-Ekiti, focused on tie and dye, modern farming, and Information Communication Technology (ICT), with experts from various fields facilitating the sessions.
The programme was made possible through a collaboration between the Industrial Arbitration Panel and Microlink Communication Limited.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Omoleye emphasized that the initiative is aimed at equipping the youths with skills for self-reliance, enabling them to contribute to the economic development of their communities and society in general.
Hon. Omoleye, who is equally the Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigeria-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Group, explained that the gesture aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to reduce unemployment and alleviate poverty.
He emphasized the importance of encouraging entrepreneurial activities among youths and promised to monitor the progress of the beneficiaries to ensure they reach their full business potential.
The lawmaker also Urged participants to apply their new skills for the benefit of their families and the state.
“The only way we can stop youth restiveness in our society is by engaging them in meaningful ventures. This is exactly what we are doing here today—teaching you how to fish, not just giving you fish.” Omoleye stated,
Pleased with the quality of Adire fabrics produced during the training, Omoleye encouraged the participants to form a cooperative society, pledging financial support for the initiative.
At the Aramoko training centre, the legislator further noted that youths are key agents of economic development, capable of driving grassroots transformation.
Omoleye also announced plans to establish a youth development centre in the constituency, where issues affecting young people would be discussed regularly and reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating additional development programmes for his constituency.
Some beneficiaries in separate interviews, expressed their gratitude to the lawmaker and urged him not to relent in his efforts.
At the closing ceremony, participants received cash, starter pack tools, accessories, and certificates.
Dignitaries at the event included wife of the lawmaker, Mrs. Olusola Omoleye; Executive Chairperson of Irewolede LCDA, Hon. Dupe Bakare; Executive Chairman of Ekiti West Local Government, Hon. Moses Omojola; Vice Chairman of Irewolede LCDA, Hon. Samson Kolawole; APC Chairman of Ijero Local Government, Mr. Adelerin Awe and APC stalwart Pa Olomojobi, among others.
