Member of the Kogi State House of Assembly, representing Igalamela/Odolu Constituency, Hon. (Barr.) Cosmas Ilemona Atabor has called on youths in his constituency to “maximise every available skill acquisition opportunity for socio-economic empowerment”.
Barr. Atabor made the call during a one day sensitization program organised by Oji-Ofa Elite Youth Forum on “the need for education and skill acquisition in the society”.
Hon. Cosmas Atabor, represented by his Personal Assistant, Com. Alih Nasir applauded the organisers for the initiative and the theme of the program: “the need for Skill Acquisition Alongside Education in the Society”.
Barr. Atabor noted that “anyone who acquires skills is empowered. Skill acquisition helps to build self esteem and makes one relevant in the society. Skill acquisition reduces over-dependence on government and politicians. Above all, it is a sure means to self reliance.
“The pursuit of educational certificates should not distract the youths from acquiring skills. As a youth, I will always support and encourage all meaningful programs of the Youths to the best of my ability”, he added.
Similarly, the Vice Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASSUP), Federal Polytechnic Idah, Dr. Abuh Musa emphasised on the importance of skill acquisition to the promotion of peaceful coexistence in the society.
He also stressed that skill acquisition helps in keeping youths gainfully engaged, “thereby leaving little or no room for crime and other forms of evil activities”.
In addition, the Chairman, Igalamela/Odolu Chapter of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) , Alhaji Tahirudeen Abdullahi commended the efforts of the organisers of the programme and urged the youths in the area to pass on the knowledge gained from the programme to youths in neighbouring communities.
President of Oji-Ofa Elite Youths Forum, Mr. Yusuf Friday appreciated the efforts of all the invited guests to the success of the programme and urged the members of the forum to “take practical steps towards gainful skill acquisition for the benefit of the individual and the broader society”.
