100 Days:  Okpebholo Secures Italy Sponsored Training For 300 Edo Youths In Welding, Others  

In a concerted effort to meaningfully empower Edo youths with technical vocational training, the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration has secured Italy government-sponsored training for

The training screening process is slated to commence on March 10th, 2025, in Benin and was facilitated by a non-governmental Organization, Mater Africa, in partnership with the coordinator, Office of First Lady, Edo state. It is aimed at creating jobs, reducing poverty, and contributing to the state’s Gross Domestic Product.

The project coordinator for Passport Mattei and former Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Government on Anti Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration, Comrade Solomon Okoduwa, disclosed this in a statement to congratulate Governor Monday Okpebholo as he marks 100 days in office.

He said, “One of the remarkable achievements within the 100 days of Governor Monday Okpebholo is the developmental project by Italian government through Mater Africa organisation to train young Edo youth here in Benin City, through the office of the Coordinator, Edo First Lady and other relevant stakeholders.” He said the project aims to bridge the unemployment gap as new Edo has risen.

“This project will create jobs, reduce poverty and increase the Gross Domestic Product of Edo State. Its priorities mainly focus on reducing youth restiveness, improving economic growth, increasing employment opportunities and stimulating economic activity between Nigeria and Italian

He lauded Senator Okpebholo’s commitment to unlocking the state’s potential and building a prosperous and sustainable future for all through this actionable project called “Passport Mattei”, describing it as commendable.

He said Passport Mattei is a significant humanitarian project initiated by Mater Africa NGO, aimed at fostering legal and dignified integration of young Nigerian youths who are potential migrants into Italian society.

He further added that the “This project is part of the broader Mattei Plan and a comprehensive initiative by the Italian government to strengthen cooperation between Italy and Africa, with a focus on sustainable development and mutual benefits”.

Passport Mattei is an innovative programme of the Italian government that adheres to the guidelines of Article 23 of the Italian Immigration Law.