The National Youth in Agriculture Training Programme, held at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre in Shere Hills, Jos, brought together over 541 youth from across Nigeria. This 10-day training empowered participants from the North West, North East, North Central. Same program is also being held in South West, and South East regions, equipping them with essential skills in agriculture, entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy.
The initiative, led by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, underscores the government’s dedication to preparing Nigerian youth for self-reliance and sustainable economic development.
The Legacy of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre
The Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, established in 1951, is a renowned institution for nurturing leadership and character. Located in the serene Shere Hills of Jos, it has a reputation for molding individuals into responsible citizens ready to contribute to national progress.
With a history of training prominent leaders, from heads of state to community changemakers, the centre continues to play a pivotal role in leadership development. Its mission aligns with fostering teamwork, resilience, and accountability among participants.
Building a Strong Foundation
The program began with foundational lectures that emphasized entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial planning. These sessions set the tone for the training, highlighting the importance of mindset alongside practical skills.
Participants explored the “1 Youth, 2 Skills” initiative, which encourages Nigerian youth to acquire two essential skills for self-sufficiency. Key topics included:
•Starting and managing a successful business.
•Developing leadership qualities to drive community development.
•Cultivating financial discipline and a savings culture.
These early lessons underscored the idea that skills, when paired with leadership and financial literacy, lead to long-term success.
Exploring Agricultural Skills
After the lectures, participants were divided into groups to specialize in one of three agricultural areas:
1.Cassava Processing
2.Beekeeping
3.Fish Farming
I chose cassava processing due to its profitability and demand. Under expert guidance, we learned to produce various products, including:
•Garri
•Fufu
•Starch
•Cassava akara
•Cassava bread
The sessions were hands-on and engaging. We used real equipment, experimented with production techniques, and explored the business potential of cassava-based products. Additionally, branding and marketing strategies were introduced, helping us view agriculture as a lucrative enterprise.
A Structured Daily Routine
The program’s schedule ensured a balanced mix of learning, reflection, and recreation:
•Energizing Mornings: Each day began with physical activities like jogging, followed by a nutritious breakfast to prepare for the day’s tasks.
•Skill Training Sessions: Morning and early afternoon sessions were dedicated to lectures and practical training. These interactive sessions encouraged active participation.
•Refreshing Breaks: Lunch breaks provided an opportunity to rest and recharge before resuming activities.
•Engaging Evenings: The evenings featured recreational activities like football matches, which fostered teamwork and relaxation. Group discussions followed, allowing us to reflect on the day’s lessons.
This structure kept participants motivated while ensuring they could fully absorb the training.
Lessons That Go Beyond Skills
This program was more than just a skills training initiative. It provided life-changing lessons that prepared us for future challenges. Key takeaways included:
•Self-Reliance: Developing skills that enable us to create opportunities and achieve independence.
•Teamwork: Learning to collaborate and communicate effectively with others.
•Financial Literacy: Understanding how to manage resources wisely to build a secure future.
The entrepreneurial insights taught us to see agriculture not merely as farming but as a viable business. Leadership training emphasized the importance of inspiring others and taking initiative, while financial planning highlighted the value of saving and investing.
Transforming Lives and Communities
The National Youth in Agriculture Training Programme, driven by the leadership of Comrade Ayodele Olawande, is a testament to the government’s commitment to youth empowerment. By blending technical expertise with essential life skills, the initiative is shaping a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
The “1 Youth, 2 Skills” initiative is not just a policy; it is a pathway to transformation. It equips participants to contribute meaningfully to their communities while fostering innovation and economic growth.
Personally, this experience has inspired me to embrace agriculture’s potential and apply my newfound knowledge to create positive change. With the right tools and mindset, we can all contribute to Nigeria’s development.
Your Thoughts Matter
What do you think about this program? Have you participated in similar initiatives? Share your experiences in the comments, and let’s discuss how we can collectively work toward empowering Nigerian youth for a brighter future!