50 students benefit as NANUS empowers youths, Kwara gov’t hails initiative
No fewer than 50 students have been trained on various entrepreneurship skills by the leadership of the National Association of Nupe Students (NANUS), Kwara State chapter.
The beneficiaries who were drawn from tertiary institutions in Kwara State were trained in various vocational skills, including photography, shoemaking, makeup artistry, and graphic design.
The two months training programme climaxed on Wednesday with the NANUS Business Summit 1.0 held at the Kwara State banquet Hall.
The event, themed “Empowering the Next Generation: Igniting Youths’ Future,” attracted dignitaries, including government officials and traditional rulers from the Nupe Kingdom.
Speaking on behalf of Kwara State Governor at the event, General Manager of the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), Dr Wasiu Tejidini, described the initiative as being in line with the development vision of the current administration.
In his remarks, Dr Tejidini praised the NANUS leadership for the initiative and encouraged other youth groups to replicate similar programmes across the state. He noted that entrepreneurship has become a key driver of economic development.
According to him, the programme reflects a positive shift in mindset among young people, who are increasingly focusing on self-reliance rather than depending solely on government support.
“It aligns with the administration’s agenda of transforming Kwara from a civil service-driven state into an entrepreneurial hub,” he said.
In her keynote address, Dr Hassanat Taiye Umar urged participants to remain focused and steadfast in their pursuit of success.
She noted that with shrinking employment opportunities, young people must embrace skills acquisition and entrepreneurship to become self-reliant and potential employers of labour.
“Real empowerment is anchored on self-discovery, skills acquisition, discipline, responsibility, and the ability to take advantage of available opportunities,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Emir of Tsonga, Alhaji (Dr) Haliru N. Yahaya, OON, commended the NANUS leadership for its vision and commitment to youth development.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would expand in future editions and urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity provided.
Earlier in his welcome address, NANUS President, Yahaya Abdulkadir, said the summit underscores the association’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
He added that the training was designed not only to impart knowledge but also to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Highlights of the event included presentation of awards, panel discussions, practical demonstrations by participants, and the presentation of start-up tools to selected beneficiaries.
