The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has successfully graduated 300 youths trained in briquette production and waste management to wealth creation opportunities.

The training program, which lasted for three months, aimed to address unemployment among youths affected by the Boko Haram conflict in the region.

The initiative, expected to be replicated across the six states of the Northeast, focused on equipping participants with skills to process abundant waste and refuse dumps in Maiduguri city, exacerbated by flood disasters.

Mohammed Goni Alkali, the Managing Director/CEO of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), urged beneficiaries of the commission’s training program to make effective use of the starter packs and kits provided to them.

During the presentation of the starter-up kits held in Maiduguri, Alkali cautioned the beneficiaries against misuse of the resources, noting that the commission’s monitoring and evaluation team would ensure that the processing machines are utilised and maintained efficiently.

He noted that to ensure the machines are well-maintained, the commission has approved the retention of local manufacturers for the next three months, who will provide periodical training and guidance on the use and maintenance of the machines.

The training program, which has already commenced in Borno State, is expected to reach other states in the North East region, targeting thousands of beneficiaries.

Alkali emphasised the commission’s commitment to empowering youths with practical skills and resources to become self-reliant, encouraging them to remain focused, hard-working, and committed.

“By investing in practical skills and green technology, the commission is not only addressing unemployment but also contributing to long-term energy security and environmental conservation. The programs aimed at turning waste into wealth creation in the region.

“The beneficiaries of this initiative recently underwent comprehensive training in briquette production, courtesy of the NEDC. With the provision of these machines, they now have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, potentially turning their skills into sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

The lead consultant of wealth creation, Dr. Zauna Mohammed, outlined the program’s process, criteria, and timeline for empowering unemployed youths.

According to her, about 300 beneficiaries from Borno State will participate, with plans to expand to other North East states.

The program uses briquette-making machines to convert waste biomass into clean energy, promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. This initiative also offers economic benefits, creating new markets and encouraging entrepreneurship.