Nigerian Government activates initiative to empower youths in leather works: Official

*The Federal Government initiative is designed to empower 100 young Nigerians through comprehensive technical and vocational education, focusing on the art of shoemaking and leather craftsmanship to create wealth and add value to the country’s economy

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

In a significant move to enhance youth empowerment in Nigeria, Mrs. Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Technical Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, has joined forces with Yikodeen and Mr. Yinka Atunde, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), to unveil a transformative shoemaking and leather-crafting training programme.

ConsumerConnect reports the Federal Government initiative is tailored to empower 100 young Nigerians through comprehensive technical and vocational education, focusing on the art of shoemaking and leather craftsmanship.

The Media Office of the SSA Friday, January 12, 2024, noted Arogundade disclosed the primary objective of the initiative is to equip aspiring artisans with essential skills, covering everything from footwear design and prototyping to pattern grading, upper preparation, footwear production, and materials knowledge.

According to her, sessions of the programme scheduled as a month-long intensive training will run from Mondays to Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“The programme adopts a holistic approach, incorporating lectures, practical exercises, weekly assignments, and bi-weekly assessments.

“Each class, accommodating 33 participants, will benefit from the expertise of a team of 10 seasoned trainers with a minimum of a decade’s experience in leatherwork.

“The chosen training venue, Yikodeen Factory in Isolo, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including specialised footwear machines, shoe lasts, and spacious workspaces. “The learning experience will be enriched by guest speakers and external experts, broadening the scope of knowledge imparted,” stated the Office.

It further said that registration, facilitated through the Community Development Association (CDA) and the Nigerian Army Ordinance, comes with no participation fees. Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded a Certificate of Participation, symbolising their dedication and proficiency in leather craftsmanship.

This Federal Government-backed programme, which will start Tuesday, January 16, 2024, signifies a collaborative effort with Lodoni Company Limited, the Nigerian Army, and Stitches and Prints Limited as sponsors and partners.

Besides, the Office stated Arogundade is committed to “employing 50 participants in a full-time capacity while addressing industry integration for skilled hands.

The success of the initiative will be measured through participant feedback, completion rates, post-training progress tracking, and employment/entrepreneurial outcomes.

A 12-month mentorship post-training ensures sustained support, contributing to the long-term goal of enhancing local talent and addressing employment challenges.

This initiative exemplifies the Federal Government’s commitment to skill development and the empowerment of Nigerian youth.