Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani broke ground for the new NASENI Skill Development Centre in Rigachukun on Monday, marking a significant step in the state's human capital development strategy. According to Punch and Premium Times, the governor described the facility as an investment in knowledge and enterprise, essential for individuals to build secure livelihoods and for society to achieve lasting prosperity. He emphasized that the centre's value will depend on its ability to complement existing institutions and equip trainees with capabilities that employers specifically require.
In his address, Sani noted that young Nigerians possess the energy and ingenuity necessary for economic renewal, but government must create the enabling conditions for these qualities to flourish. He cited the recent graduation of 4,050 students from the state’s vocational training campuses in August. These graduates completed training in 14 trades, including electrical installation, solar installation, and mechatronics. The governor disclosed that the institute received formal approval from the National Board for Technical Education, while instructors were trained as Quality Assurance Assessors to enhance the credibility of certification for employers.
Halilu Khalil, the Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, explained that the new centre is intended to close the divide between academic instruction and the hands-on abilities needed by commercial enterprises. He stated that access to skilled workers is essential for industries seeking to improve production and maintain equipment. Khalil argued that equipment alone cannot industrialize a nation; rather, productive investment requires people who understand how to operate, improve, and maintain technology locally. NASENI’s responsibilities, he noted, extend beyond research to building the technical capacity for local manufacturing.
The governor also stressed the importance of inclusive access, stating that women, persons with disabilities, and youth in neglected areas need fair chances to join the workforce. He urged NASENI and contractors to uphold agreed standards and timelines to ensure timely delivery and effective operation. The state government has provided the site and remains committed to facilitating the project, aiming to create a reliable link between local talent and economic growth.