Ganduje Supports Large-Scale Youth Skills Programme Ahead of Mid-February Launch

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano

The RISE A+ AROMAS Free Scholarship Training Programme, a youth-focused initiative designed to promote skills development, entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance, is set to commence in mid-February 2026, as earlier scheduled.

The programme is sponsored by the Chairperson of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR, as part of broader efforts to strengthen human capital development and youth empowerment across Nigeria.

Structured as a free online training initiative, the programme targets youths, students and aspiring entrepreneurs across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. Participants are expected to acquire practical skills in digital marketing, handcraft production and product packaging, with a focus on building sustainable livelihoods and self-employment opportunities.

The Chairman of the RISE A+ AROMAS Foundation, Alhaji Abubakar Sidi Akibu, disclosed these details in an interview with ‘The Historica Nigeria’ on Sunday, noting that the initiative was conceived to address rising youth unemployment and the need for practical, market-relevant skills.

According to Akibu, the Foundation plans to distribute digital devices to beneficiaries ahead of the commencement of the programme to ensure full and effective participation. About 200 selected youths will receive smartphones, while an additional 500 beneficiaries are to be supported with laptops and data subscriptions to facilitate uninterrupted access to the online training.

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He added that the application process will close on February 10, stressing that early registration is essential to allow for proper screening and timely distribution of the devices before the programme begins.

Beyond the initial batch, Akibu revealed that the project has been designed on a larger scale, with a total of 15,000 youths expected to benefit from the initiative nationwide through phased implementation.

He explained that the training will be delivered virtually via a dedicated Telegram learning platform, where registered participants will receive official updates, instructional materials and real-time engagement throughout the programme.

Describing the initiative as a people-centred intervention, Akibu said it reflects Dr. Ganduje’s sustained commitment to youth empowerment, innovation and inclusive economic participation beyond political considerations.

He further disclosed that outstanding participants would receive incentives at the conclusion of the programme to encourage excellence and support their entrepreneurial growth.

Interested applicants have been urged to apply promptly, as only duly registered candidates will be enrolled and granted access to the training platform.