By The Federal Government, through the Made in Nigeria Special Project, has intensified efforts to identify and support young entrepreneurs in Taraba State as part of plans to strengthen local production and reduce reliance on oil revenue.
The State Coordinator of the project, Hon. Justin Aondoaseer Tyopuusu, disclosed this during a visit to the Chairman of the Taraba State Youth Development Agency, Mr. Gara Nongha.
Hon. Tyopuusu explained that the initiative is designed to expand non-oil economic opportunities by empowering young Nigerians to produce, innovate, and compete effectively in both local and international markets.
He noted that the project focuses on identifying and supporting youth entrepreneurs in manufacturing and agro-processing, facilitating training and capacity-building programmes, and connecting youth-led businesses to markets and investment opportunities. According to him, the initiative also seeks to promote innovation, creativity, and local content development across Taraba State.
The coordinator further stated that the project is seeking partnership with the state government to enhance social stability and drive sustainable economic growth.
“This partnership will not only reduce unemployment but also strengthen social stability and promote sustainable development in Taraba State,” he said, adding that Nigeria’s overdependence on oil revenue remains a major economic challenge that requires deliberate efforts to address.
Tyopuusu emphasized that Taraba is blessed with a vibrant and energetic youth population who, with the right support, skills development, enterprise guidance, mentorship, packaging, branding, and market access, can transition from job seekers to job creators.
“Our goal is to create a strategic platform that mobilises states, private sector players, and development partners towards building a resilient, production-driven national economy,” he added.
In his response, Mr. Gara Nongha pledged the state government’s readiness to support the initiative. He assured that the Agency’s doors would remain open to ensure the programme’s success in Taraba State.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the initiative, noting that the project aligns with Governor Agbu Kefas’ youth development agenda.
“We will fully support and ensure the success of this programme for the benefit of Taraba youths,” Nongha assured.
