The Adamawa State Government has graduated 63 youths and women trained in cosmetology and home technology as part of its ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship and reduce unemployment in the state.
The Commissioner for Entrepreneurship Development, Hon. Hammanjuba Gatugel, speaking during the graduation ceremony and presentation of start-up kits in Yola, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to equipping citizens with practical, market-driven skills capable of fostering self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Gatugel said the training was designed to empower beneficiaries with hands-on skills that generate income and stimulate local economic activities. He described the event as a celebration of “hard work, creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to personal and economic transformation.”
According to him, cosmetology, home technology and similar vocational trades remain among the fastest-growing sectors in micro-enterprise development, providing daily income and supporting families across the state.
The Commissioner congratulated the beneficiaries and urged them to grow the skills they have acquired, noting that they are now positioned to contribute to the economic prosperity of Adamawa State and Nigeria. He also expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his continuous support, describing him as “a true father to all.”
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA), Mr. Michael Zira, commended the state government for prioritizing skills acquisition, which he described as one of the most sustainable ways to uplift society. He said PAWECA’s achievements are tied to the Governor’s vision and commitment to human capital development.
The Adamawa State Coordinator of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Mustapha Gana, said the newly acquired skills in cosmetology and home technology are essential to the state’s economic growth. He encouraged the beneficiaries to be professional, creative and committed to excellence in their businesses.
In his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Kwaji Duguri, expressed gratitude for the government’s extensive support to entrepreneurship development, noting that the programme focuses on empowering beneficiaries to earn a sustainable livelihood rather than providing temporary assistance.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Mr. Wonokaha Sunday Ahmadu thanked Governor Fintiri, Commissioner Gatugel, the facilitators and PAWECA for the training and additional financial support provided to help them start their businesses.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), and the President of Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria. They all urged the graduates to apply their skills productively and contribute to societal development.
