jasdooit

The UNICEF, in collaboration with the Borno State Government, has initiated a skills development program designed to support 1,033 children impacted by violence in the region.

During the event held on Wednesday in Maiduguri, Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF’s Country Representative, stated that the program aims to provide children with hands-on, job-oriented skills like sewing, information and communication technology, auto repair, shoemaking, and woodworking.

Saeed, who was represented by Shah Mohammad Khan, the UNICEF Child Protection Manager, mentioned that numerous children and teenagers in the area, particularly girls, had been deprived of the opportunity to acquire skills or follow their aspirations because of prolonged conflict.

“Conflict did not only reduce the national economy; it has severely affected personal income and the earning capacity of families and young people,” she stated.

Too many children and teenagers in the area, particularly girls, have been deprived of the opportunity to acquire a skill or chase their aspirations for far too long.

She mentioned that the ongoing conflict in the Northeast had left children vulnerable to kidnappings, sexual abuse, and other serious breaches, while also robbing families of chances to earn a living.

“Currently, 1,033 children, including 567 boys and 466 girls, are receiving vocational training at centers in Maiduguri, Bama, Biu, Damboa, and Konduga,” she stated.

As she mentioned, the program will integrate practical and life skills, emotional support, and formal accreditation to prepare participants for long-term self-sufficiency.

“These centers for vocational training not only bring back education, but also offer hope, respect, and chances for young people impacted by conflicts and their families,” she mentioned.

Every year, more than a thousand children will receive assistance, acquiring hands-on skills that lead to job opportunities and sustainable living. Alumni will not only create better futures for themselves but also play a role in promoting peace, rebuilding, and strength within their communities.

Additionally, the Borno State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abba Wakilbe, praised UNICEF and other UN organizations, such as UNDP, IOM, and UNODC, for their support of the program.

He characterized the initiative as transformative for numerous children who had been victims of kidnapping and coercive enlistment by rebels.

“Have a look at this boy, Bukar Modu. He was taken when he was around nine years old and made to carry weapons and even create homemade bombs,” Wakilbe stated.

They are examples of children who were taken against their will. Hence, a program like this will have a major effect on their lives. I would like to specifically thank UNICEF for assisting us in many challenging circumstances.

On October 4, 2025, the United Nations Children’s Fund provided Information and Communication Technology devices to the Sokoto State Operations Coordinating Unit in order to assist with social protection initiatives.

Displaying the items on Saturday in Sokoto, Mr. Michel Juma, Chief of Field Office at UNICEF, stated that the action was intended to enhance and guarantee a working National Social Register for recognizing and assisting more impoverished and vulnerable individuals.