120 Nigerian returnees get skills, empowerment

A total of 120 Nigerian returnees have graduated from a three-month skill acquisition programme in Abuja designed to make them self-reliant and employers of labour. The training programme, RECONNECT Project, was implemented by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) in collaboration with ActionAid, GIZ, and GOPA. Speaking at the event, […]

A total of 120 Nigerian returnees have graduated from a three-month skill acquisition programme in Abuja designed to make them self-reliant and employers of labour.

The training programme, RECONNECT Project, was implemented by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) in collaboration with ActionAid, GIZ, and GOPA.

Speaking at the event, ActionAid Country Director, Nigeria, Mr Andrew Mamedu, said the RECONNECT Project was implemented in Edo, Lagos and Abuja.

“In total, 400 individuals across the three locations have been trained in market-driven skills such as fashion design, hairdressing, catering and hotel management, baking and confectionery, textile and adire making, and shoemaking.

“Today, we celebrate not only the completion of a training programme for the 120 participants in Abuja but also the beginning of new ventures, new livelihoods, and hope for these Nigerians.

“Over the past few months, participants have undergone intensive hands-on training and entrepreneurial development through the Inspire, Create, Start and Scale (ICSS) module, which is an essential component that prepares them not only to work but to lead, innovate, and create opportunities for others.”

He said the RECONNECT Project goes beyond reintegration, adding that it embodies the fight against poverty and inequality.

 

“By strengthening the capacity of young Nigerians with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, we are contributing to tackling the structural causes of poverty and unemployment.

 

“We are building resilience, strengthening livelihoods, and giving people the tools to reclaim their dignity,” Mamedu said.

 

The Federal Commissioner of the NCFRMI, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, who presented certificates to the graduating returnees, charged them to remain in the country.

 

“I am sure after your graduation, we will not find any of you on the street begging because of the training that you have received. And also, the starter fund that you received to start your business.

 

“This is all about integration. This is all about empowerment. You have to put your commitment into putting this trade into action.

 

“Please remain in Nigeria. Please be part of this country. The government is changing, and our life system is also changing positively in Nigeria today. “