Jigawa Empowers 400 Youths with Date-Palm Farming Training and Support

The Jigawa State Government has intensified efforts to reduce youth unemployment by training and empowering 400 young people in date-palm cultivation.

Date-palm farming, a long-standing agricultural practice in Jigawa, is valued for its economic and environmental benefits. The state has consistently promoted the crop to boost rural incomes, diversify the economy, and help combat desertification.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony held on Monday at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Fanisau, Dutse, Governor Umar Namadi said the initiative is designed to provide youths with sustainable livelihoods.

“This pilot scheme aims to equip young people with skills and resources to build sustainable livelihoods,” Namadi stated.

He explained that each participant will manage half a hectare of date-palm trees, totalling 200 trees in designated clusters. In addition to technical training, the beneficiaries will receive a monthly allowance for two years, as well as access to industrial boreholes and other support facilities.

“The monthly allowance for two years is designed to support the youths while they develop their farms into profitable ventures,” the governor said.

The 400 trainees were drawn equally from Birniwa, Yankwashi, Babura, and Sule Tankarkar local government areas. Namadi stressed that the programme is both an economic diversification strategy and an environmental protection measure.

“We want to empower our youths to be self-reliant and contribute positively to the state’s economy,” he said, adding that the government would continue to expand job creation and promote agriculture as a reliable source of income.

The governor also encouraged other youths across the state to embrace skills acquisition and agricultural ventures.

“Our vision is to make Jigawa a hub of sustainable farming and environmental conservation, empowering young people as active contributors,” Namadi added.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the programme. Aminu Musa from Birniwa LGA said: “This programme has given me hope and a real chance to support my family. I am excited to start cultivating date palms and build a better future.”

Similarly, Yusuf Sani from Babura LGA said the initiative had transformed his outlook: “Before this, I had no clear source of income, but now, with the skills and monthly support, I can confidently plan for my future.”

Other participants also praised the training and allowances, noting that the support would set them on the path to independence and financial stability.