*Empowering Nigerians through Skills, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship By Nidala Muhammad Rabiu In a major move to combat youth unemployme...
*Empowering Nigerians through Skills, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
By Nidala Muhammad Rabiu
In a major move to combat youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship, the World Bank, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education and the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), has launched a six-month intensive training programme for 300 youth and women in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The initiative, part of the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Project, focuses on leather and footwear production — one of Nigeria’s most promising industries with vast local and export potential.
Representing the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, the Technical Assistant for the IDEAS Project, Dr Anna Madiga, officially inaugurated the programme at NILEST headquarters. She emphasised that the federal government, with support from the World Bank, aims to shift national focus from dependence on white-collar jobs to hands-on skill development capable of driving wealth creation and employment.
“This IDEAS training will change lives and improve communities by empowering young Nigerians with practical skills for economic growth and self-sufficiency,” said Dr Madiga. She added that the IDEAS Project forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, modernise their facilities, and deliver industry-relevant skills — particularly to women and vulnerable groups.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NILEST, Dr Auwal Mustapha Imam, congratulated the selected trainees and encouraged them to seize the opportunity with dedication. He noted that the programme would cover various aspects of leatherwork, including shoe, belt, and bag production, under the guidance of seasoned professionals and industry experts.
“This is not just training; it is the beginning of your journey toward becoming entrepreneurs, employers, and contributors to Nigeria’s economic diversification,” Dr Imam stated. He also announced that participants would receive monthly stipends and, upon completion, start-up kits to help them establish their own businesses — a gesture aligned with the government’s vision of building a self-reliant, skill-driven economy.
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| Dr. Imam, DG NILEST |
The leather industry has been identified as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic diversification due to its potential for job creation, export earnings, and reduced dependence on imports. Through the IDEAS Project, NILEST aims to transform the sector by enhancing capacity, promoting innovation, and supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs.
The World Bank’s involvement underscores international confidence in Nigeria’s potential to grow its small and medium-scale industries through skill-based development. The project is also expected to strengthen collaboration between vocational institutions and the private sector, ensuring that training outcomes align with job market needs.
The launch event, attended by education officials, industry stakeholders, and community leaders, was hailed as a milestone in the federal government’s commitment to youth empowerment. Participants expressed optimism that the training would open new economic opportunities and help them achieve financial independence.
The IDEAS Project continues to stand as a model for sustainable development through practical education and skills acquisition — bridging the gap between learning and employment.
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