Governor Umaru Bago has inaugurated an empowerment programme for 716 youths sponsored by a state lawmaker, Sani Umar (APC-Kontagora 1), in Kontagora LGA.

While inaugurating the programme that involved the disbursement of funds on Sunday in Kontagora, he said it would enable youths to acquire skills for self-reliance.

Mr Bago commended the lawmaker for the empowerment programme, which he described as people-centred. He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the support given to them, saying that the programme was designed to impact their lives positively.

He said the Niger government would continue to develop policies that positively impact the lives of the people, especially women and youths.

Mr Bago said youth empowerment was crucial to fighting unemployment, restiveness and hardship. He commended the state legislators for their support and collaboration, attributing the government’s successes to their continued assistance and foresight.

The governor reiterated his resolve to foster cohesion between the executive and legislature, ensuring the delivery of democracy dividends to the electorate.

Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, the speaker of the House of Assembly, commended the lawmaker for the initiative aimed at empowering the youths to become self-reliant.

He lauded the governor for not interfering with legislative engagements and for promoting democratic principles in governance and the polity.

(NAN)