The National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), in collaboration with Adeal Multi-Concepts International Ltd, has initiated a strategic intervention to foster job creation in Enugu State by harnessing local technology and grassroots innovation.
To this end, a three-day training programme on Harnessing Local Technology for Job Creation was organised in Enugu which featured theoretical and hands-on practical sessions, attracting participants from various sectors.
The event also had in attendance representatives from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and other notable organisations.
The Director General and CEO of NBTI, Dr. Kazeem Kolawale Raji, was represented at the training by the Centre Manager, Technology Incubation Centre (TIC), Enugu, Mrs. Thelma Ifeoma Nwabueze.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Nwabueze described the training—titled: “Modern Methods of Local Food/Agro Processing and Preservation for Job Creation”—as both timely and essential.
She noted that the initiative was critical in addressing the urgent need to create sustainable livelihoods through the application of indigenous technologies and modern innovations.
“Nigeria is richly endowed with agricultural produce and traditional knowledge, yet the absence of proper processing and preservation methods has continued to limit the economic potential of these resources,” she stated.
She emphasised that the initiative aims to bridge this gap, by equipping participants—particularly youths, women, and grassroots entrepreneurs—with practical skills to convert local raw materials into marketable products, these, she noted include improving shelf life, reducing post-harvest losses, and ultimately generating income and employment.
“This training aligns with NBTI’s strategic mandate of nurturing grassroots innovation, accelerating the commercialization of homegrown technologies, and strengthening the incubation ecosystem nationwide,” she added.
Mrs. Nwabueze also reiterated the programme’s alignment with the broader national agenda of economic diversification, food security, and inclusive industrialisation.
“We are excited about the knowledge being shared here, and we encourage all participants to engage actively, ask questions, and make the most of the expertise of our facilitators. Let this be more than just a training—let it be the beginning of transformation in your communities and business endeavors,” she concluded.
She thanked the organising team, resource persons, and all participants for their commitment and contributions to the success of the programme.
One of the key highlights of the training was a session delivered by Mr. Ogbuzuru Stephen, a resource person, who spoke on the topic: “Impact of Packaging and Branding on Product Commercialisation.”
In his presentation, Mr. Stephen explored the functions and types of packaging, importance of packaging and branding in marketing, key elements and benefits of branding, impact of packaging and branding on sales, and how branding influences consumer buying behavior.
Participants left the training better informed and inspired to apply their new knowledge toward building sustainable, locally-driven enterprises.
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