Skill acquisition: Gov Ododo establishes OYESA to train 250 Kogi youths

The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has announced the establishment of the Ododo Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Programme (OYESA).

He made the announcement on Tuesday during his statewide broadcast to mark the country’s 64th Independence Day Anniversary.

Under this new initiative, 250 youths selected from across the 21 local government councils of the state will receive cutting-edge training in critical areas such as CNG conversion, welding and fabrication, automobile mechatronics, solar system installation, and more.

“This programme will commence as soon as we finalize the modalities with our proposed partner, the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute (NKFI),” Ododo said.

The governor explained that the rationale behind the establishment of OYESA is to develop the state’s human capital and equip the youths with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy, especially as Nigeria transitions to cleaner energy under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, beneficiaries will receive stipends, accommodation, starter packs, and business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission to support their entrepreneurial journeys.

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Ododo described the programme as “a vital step in reducing unemployment, addressing youth restiveness, and preparing our young people for meaningful contributions to society.”

The governor also elaborated on the recent appointment of 717 Ward Special Assistants (WSA) by his administration.

He stated that these appointments are part of his administration’s commitment to deepening inclusivity.

“This initiative ensures that our governance is truly participatory by bringing leadership closer to the grassroots.

“You complained that in the past, officials were often disconnected from the communities they were appointed to represent, and we listened.

“Accordingly, the WSAs actually live and work within their respective wards and will serve as direct links between the government and the people.

“This structure not only enhances accountability and feedback but also brings added financial prudence to the mix, as the combined salaries of three WSAs equate to that of one Senior Special Assistant, thus reducing the cost of governance.

“Through this strategy, we are empowering inhabitants of rural communities, supporting local development, and ensuring that the aspirations of our people at the grassroots have a point of contact through which they can be fully integrated into our Continuity and Consolidation Agenda,” he explained.