The Akwa Ibom government has launched a skills acquisition training programme for no fewer than 150 repentant youths from the state.
at the inauguration of the programme in Uyo on Thursday, Gov. Udom Emmanuel said that the essence of the training is to equip the youths for self-reliance.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, Gov. Emmanuel said that the training is being undertaken under the state government’s disarmament programme.
He said the the Small Arms and Light Weapons Control Initiative is aimed at pushing the youths out of crime and militancy.
The governor said that the youths will be trained in skills such as auto-mechanics, electrical works, computer applications, and plumbing, among others.
“We commend those of you who have listened to the call to lay down your arms, embrace peace and support the development initiatives of our government.
“I really respect your courage and decision. This programme is also part of our campaign promise to engage our youths in meaningful and productive ventures,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr Joel Bisina, Executive Director, Leadership Initiative for Transformation and Empowerment (LITE-Africa), said the project is designed to reduce the number of small arms and light weapons in the hands of unauthorised persons.
“We work with state governments to talk to young people who possess weapons. Our mission is to tackle the proliferation of arms,” he said.
Mr Dickson Orji, Coordinator of Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons (PRESCOM), urged the youths to take the training seriously.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Samuel Akpan thanked the state government and other partners for the initiative.
He expressed the resolve of the beneficiaries to take the training seriously in order to become useful to themselves and to the state at large.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme is supervised by LITE-Africa with partnership from PRESCOM.
Tagged, “Strengthening Peace Security and Stability in West Africa”, the programme drew youths mostly from Ukanafun and Etim Ekpo Local Government Areas.