**Over 1,200 Women and Youths Empowered Under Tinubu/Uba Sani Renewed Hope Programme in Kaduna**
No fewer than 1,200 women and youths in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State have benefited from vocational training and financial support under the Renewed Hope empowerment initiative of the Tinubu/Uba Sani Mobilisation Network.
The beneficiaries, who completed a three-month skills acquisition programme, were presented with start-up support on Saturday at LEA Primary School, Rigachikun, as stakeholders highlighted ongoing Federal Government infrastructure projects in Kaduna State as evidence of economic development efforts.
Speaking at the event, former Sole Administrator of Igabi Local Government Area, Jafar Murtala Sabo, described major infrastructure projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Highway, Kano-Kaduna Gas Pipeline, Kaduna Light Rail Project, and Ibadan-Kaduna-Kano Railway as transformative investments capable of boosting the state’s economy.
He said the projects represent significant commitments to improving livelihoods, creating jobs, and driving long-term economic growth in Kaduna State and the wider North-West region.
According to him, the ongoing developments will help stimulate economic activities and improve the standard of living of residents.
The empowerment programme was organised by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors of the Tinubu/Uba Sani Mobilisation Network to equip women and youths with practical skills for self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
The Chairman and Convener of the Network, Abdulmuninu Aminu Zaria, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Uba Sani’s inclusive development strategy.
He explained that beneficiaries were trained in eight different vocational trades and provided with financial assistance to help them establish and grow small businesses.
Zaria said the goal of the programme is to reduce poverty, create opportunities at the grassroots level, and promote economic independence among vulnerable groups.
The Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, Hajiya Falmata Abacha, described the graduation ceremony as a major milestone in strengthening poverty reduction and economic empowerment initiatives in the state.
She noted that the programme complements ongoing federal and state efforts to promote financial inclusion, skills development, and entrepreneurship among women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
Representing the Zazzau Emirate Council, Alhaji Abdullahi Jumare commended the organisers for their commitment to community development and urged beneficiaries to make effective use of the opportunity provided.
One of the beneficiaries, Hadiza Muhammad, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Uba Sani, and the organisers, describing the training as life-changing.
She said participants were trained in various vocational skills including catering, computer operations, paint production, bedsheet making, and home farming.
The beneficiaries pledged to use their acquired skills and financial support to establish businesses and contribute to economic growth in their communities.