In furtherance of empowering youths and stimulating grassroots economic growth, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has launched the distribution of 300 micro-retail shops as the initiative’s first phase.
The distribution of 300 shops to 300 youths selected from across the state was done under the Jigawa State Micro Retailers Empowerment Initiative
Delivering his speech at the Mallam Aminu Kano Triangle, Dutse, Governor Namadi said the initiative was part of his administration’s commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering growth and development in the state.
“Today, we are launching yet another youth empowerment and employment program designed to provide sustainable means of livelihood to 300 youths across the state. This aligns with our homegrown, innovative, and well-targeted youth empowerment programmes being implemented across all sectors of the state’s economy.
“The initiative was first inaugurated in July 2024 by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the 4th Expanded National MSME Clinics in Jigawa State, in which 50 prototype retail shops were showcased, promising to scale up to 300 units.
“I am highly delighted that today, as we are gathered here, all 300 micro retail shops are ready to be distributed to 300 carefully selected youth from each of the state’s wards.
“Each kiosk comes pre-stocked with essential commodities, serving as seed capital for the beneficiaries to launch their retail businesses,” the governor stated.
Governor Namadi noted that each beneficiary can own and grow a retail shop to become a much bigger business enterprise, gradually transforming them from micro retailers to big-time businessmen.
He added that the beneficiaries would be given training in basic business skills to ensure they can effectively manage their enterprises.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s broader commitment to economic empowerment, pointing to several initiatives that have benefited over 200,000 individuals in the past 18 months, including programmes focused on women’s enterprises, small and medium-scale business grants, and microcredit schemes.
He reassured Jigawa youths of his continued dedication to their development: “We would not relent on our efforts. We will continue to give high priority to innovative economic empowerment and employment programmes that provide sustainable livelihoods.
“As part of the administration’s future plans, the proposed state budget includes over N7 billion for business cooperatives, skills development, micro-credit support, and other youth-focused initiatives”.
Governor Namadi then urged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity provided to grow economically.
“I pray that you will all be successful in managing the retail shops and that in the next one or two years, you will all be celebrated as having expanded your businesses beyond micro retail to something bigger, In Shaa Allah,” Governor Namadi said.
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