Olubadan hails FG’s vocational training programme as poverty solution

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged the Federal Government to expand its vocational training and empowerment programme, describing it as a way to tackle poverty and unemployment among Nigerians.

Ladoja spoke on Thursday when Dr Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, visited his palace in Ibadan to brief him on the ongoing programme in Oyo State.

The initiative, implemented under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy, aims to equip beneficiaries with practical skills to improve their employability, establish businesses and achieve financial independence.

The monarch commended Arogundade for the initiative, saying it would help beneficiaries become self-reliant and contribute to the country’s economic development.

“It’s a very good initiative, and we are very proud of Arogundade.

“I would also like to encourage many people in her position to emulate her, because this will go a long way in empowering people and reducing poverty in our society,” he said.

Ladoja also urged influential individuals and organisations to invest in skills acquisition and income-generating opportunities to help more Nigerians overcome economic hardship.

Earlier, Arogundade said the grand finale of the 10-day vocational training programme for 200 youths in Oyo State would hold on Friday.