By Rabiu Sunusi
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening skills acquisition and innovation as the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) trained men and women in solar panel installation and maintenance in Kano State.
The programme, which focused on renewable energy technology, is part of ongoing efforts to equip Nigerians with practical skills for self-reliance, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Representing the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, Musaddiq Mustafa Adamu said the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s determination to empower citizens through technical education and entrepreneurship support.
He noted that the acquisition of vocational skills remains critical to addressing unemployment, particularly among young people, adding that participants should make the most of the opportunity by establishing businesses and contributing meaningfully to national development.
In his remarks, the Kano State Commissioner for Finance, Ismail Aliyu Dan Maraya, described the training as timely and strategic, especially in view of the rising demand for renewable energy solutions across the country.
He commended the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure for its continued investment in human capital development, noting that empowering women and youths through technical training would significantly improve livelihoods and boost economic productivity.
According to him, the Kano State Government remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote skills development and create opportunities for self-employment.
Earlier, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, explained that the collaboration between NASENI and the Kano State Government is aimed at expanding job opportunities, reducing poverty, and addressing social challenges such as street begging.
He said the solar energy training programme is designed to provide beneficiaries with hands-on experience that will enable them to become self-reliant while also improving energy access in their communities.
Halilu further emphasized that renewable energy remains a key driver of national development, adding that investing in technical skills will help Nigeria build a stronger and more sustainable economy.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Kano State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hajiya Sa’adatu Salisu Yusha’u, called for the expansion of similar empowerment programmes to rural communities.
She noted that young people in rural areas possess enormous untapped potential, stressing that extending such training would promote grassroots inclusion and reduce unemployment.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, NASENI, and the Kano State Government for the opportunity and the starter packs provided.
They pledged to use the skills acquired to establish sustainable businesses, become self-reliant, and contribute positively to their communities.