NDE Disburses N27.6 Million To The Unemployed In Kebbi

From Ayodele Ajoge, Birnin-Kebbi

The Federal government through the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) on Wednesday in Kebbi State disbursed N27.6 million loan to 276 unemployed people to enable them engage in the Agricultural Enhancement Scheme (AES).

Addressing beneficiaries of the loans, the Director General of the NDE, Malam Abubakar Nuhu Fikpo who spoke through his Coordinator in Kebbi State, Mr. Ambianto Amos Francis said the occasion is remarkable because it is a clear demonstration of the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari towards youth employment, food security and wealth creation.

Malam Fikpo reminded the beneficiaries that this gesture is a rare opportunity which should not be allowed to fail, pointing out that with the loan and training skills acquired they have been able to overcome the challenges of their immediate environment.

He pointed out further that the loan will provide them with the require finances for entrepreneurship, therefore, they should put in their best to succeed and pay the loan back in due time so that other unemployed people will benefit subsequently.

In his speech, the Head of Department (HOD) of the Rural Employment Programme (REP) Mr. Etim Duke, represented by Hajia Umaima Muhammad said it is worthy of note that many NDE post SADIS trained youth and rural farmers do not have income to enhance their businesses, which has led to the closure of many agric businesses.

He explained that the REP department is implementing the Agriculture Enhancement Scheme (AES) for the NDE trained youth, therefore, the programme will create employment and generate wealth that will go along way to reducing the number of unemployment.