Alhaji Umar Makun Emphasizes Entrepreneurship's Role in Youth's Future at IBBUL Skills Program

In a recent Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship program held at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBUL) in Lapai, the significance of entrepreneurship initiatives as a foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future for the youth of Niger State was underscored by Alhaji Umar Makun Lapai, former Executive Secretary of the Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Delivering the keynote address, Alhaji Makun highlighted the necessity of prioritizing the development of IBBUL, the state’s pioneer state-owned university. He praised the state government's efforts while advocating for increased investment to enable IBBUL to compete with prominent institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Bayero University Kano, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Congratulating the Lapai Emirate Students Association (LAESA) for organizing the program, he noted that initiatives like these are crucial for redirecting youth energy toward productive endeavors rather than street protests. He advised the youth to engage with the government maturely and peacefully to express their concerns.

The Coordinator for Entrepreneurship in Niger State, Shehu Bawa Bwari, also commended the initiative, emphasizing the importance of skills acquisition in today's job market. He pointed out the scarcity of white-collar jobs and encouraged participants to acquire skills that would allow them to become employers of labor.

Bwari further urged the organizers to collaborate with the Ministry for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to leverage the numerous benefits available for entrepreneurs in the state. He expressed confidence that such collaboration would enhance the impact of their efforts and contribute to fostering peaceful coexistence in Niger State.