The Kano State Government has announced plans to train no fewer than 50,000 youths in a comprehensive skills acquisition programme in 2026, aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting economic self‑reliance, officials say.
Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf disclosed the projection on Sunday, January 11, 2026, during the distribution of empowerment packages to 2,260 graduates of eight entrepreneurship and vocational training institutes at the Government House in Kano.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin Tofa, the initiative is designed to equip young people with practical and market‑relevant skills to enable them to become productive contributors to the state’s economy.
“Our goal is to empower young people with the skills and opportunities they need to stand on their own, earn a living and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Kano State,” Governor Yusuf said, underlining the programme’s potential impact on youth livelihoods.
The governor described the large‑scale training as part of his administration’s broader strategy to combat poverty, unemployment and youth restiveness across communities in the state.
He said that significant investments will be made to ensure that young people receive effective training and support that can lead to gainful employment or self‑employment.
Dawakin Tofa noted that the planned training will complement ongoing empowerment programmes implemented by the state government, furthering inclusive economic growth and social development.
He said the effort underscores the government’s commitment to tackling structural challenges associated with youth unemployment.
The governor’s comments followed his personal registration with the All-Progressives Congress (APC) digital membership platform at the state secretariat, where other party leaders were also registered, but he reiterated that the skills initiative transcends political affiliation and is focused on youths’ welfare.
Political observers say Kano’s skills acquisition drive aligns with similar youth empowerment efforts across Nigeria, where governments and development partners have prioritised vocational, entrepreneurial and technical training to address high unemployment rates among youths.
The training targets multiple vocational and enterprise areas and is expected to equip participants with tools, knowledge and certification that enhance their employability and entrepreneurial prospects, according to officials.
If realised, the programme could significantly contribute to job creation and sustainable development across the state, reinforcing youth capacity and participation in Kano’s evolving economy.
