The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in partnership with the Zamfara Government Enterprises and Employment Programme, has trained 300 beneficiaries across three local government areas in Zamfara State to improve livelihood opportunities and strengthen community resilience.

The beneficiaries were drawn from Bungudu, Gusau and Tsafe Local Government Areas. The training was conducted at the Skills Acquisition Training Centre in Gidan Dawa, Gusau, under the European Union-funded project, Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Thursday, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with donor agencies, organisations and individuals to empower vulnerable households, particularly women and young people.

Represented by his deputy, Mani Mumuni, the governor expressed appreciation to the European Union and IOM for supporting the programme. He encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills responsibly to improve their livelihoods, provide for their families and contribute to Zamfara State’s development.

Lawal also stressed the importance of partnerships in creating more opportunities for vulnerable residents and improving their economic and social wellbeing.

At the ceremony, Ambassador Abimbola Wonosikou, Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Complex Extremism at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), described the initiative as a valuable approach to addressing violence and extremism.

The programme forms part of broader efforts to support communities affected by crises by equipping residents with practical skills and opportunities to strengthen their livelihoods.

Through its partnership with the Zamfara government, IOM aims to help vulnerable residents improve their economic prospects while contributing to wider efforts to promote stability and resilience across the state.

Source: MSME Africa