Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has said that his administration is in partnership with Google to train 10,000 youth of the state in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
To this end, he urged the youths who are engaged in causing mayhem in the state to lay down their arms, embrace peace and choose the path of constructive engagement.
He said drug abuse, cultism, internet fraud popularly known as Yahoo, Yahoo and other social vices are a cankerworm he will never allow them to indulge in.
Governor Alia stated this yesterday in his address to mark this year’s International Youths Day (IYD) celebration in Makurdi.
He said, “We understand that the development of our youth is a panacea for the development of Benue State. This is why we have embarked on several initiatives aimed at empowering you and creating opportunities for your growth.
“In partnership with Google, we have commenced the training of 10,000 youth in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This initiative is designed to equip you with the skills needed to compete in the digital economy, opening doors to endless opportunities. Very shortly, some youth of the state will be participating in the UN Volunteer Scheme, which our administration has collaborated with the United Nations to sponsor.
“We are also constructing a fashion hub, a space where creativity meets opportunity. This hub will not only encourage creativity but also create jobs with a view to fostering a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs from Benue”.
Governor Alia maintained that the youth of the state constitute over 60% of the entire population and are the pendulum upon which his administration swings.
He said he was indeed enthusiastic over the strides some youths are making in various fields such as education, entrepreneurship, sports and technology, stressing that such innovation and creativity will continue to inspire hope and confidence in the future of the state and the nation in general.
Governor Alia said the ongoing renovation of Aper Aku Stadium is a testament to the commitment of his government to bringing sporting activities back into the state.
He pointed out that discussions were underway with all government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), geared towards creating avenues for youth engagement and empowerment in each of the three senatorial zones of the state to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education and security apparatus.
These foundational pillars, the governor said are essential for the long-term growth and prosperity of the state.
He commended them for their maturity and wisdom in the recent nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, saying their decision not to take to the streets was instructive.
Governor Alia said he was aware of the challenges posed by insecurity, much of which, regrettably, involves some of our youth, and urged those who are engaged in causing mayhem to lay down their arms, embrace peace and choose the path of constructive engagement.
