FG pledges support to gemstones, jewellery trainees

The Federal Government has assured youths under-going training in Gemstones and jewellery of its support, to ensure their products competed favourably on the international market.

The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite, made this known in a statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Mrs Etore Thomas, on Thursday, in Abuja.

Adegbite, who visited the 40 selected youth, currently under-going training in various aspects on gemstones and jewellery making, said that the trainees would be empowered after the training.

According to him, after completion of their training, the youth were expected to impart the knowledge acquired on other people, to improve the industry.

“The target of the training is not just to train and set them up but to impart knowledge on other people.

“Every state in Nigeria is represented here and by the time the programme is completed, we are going to have a revolution that would multiply and engage our teeming youth positively.”

The Minister said that the second batch would commence in February, and appreciated the continuous support of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) for providing a centre for the trainees.

Speaking earlier, the President, ACCI, Mr Al – Mujtaba Abubakar, represented by Mr Emeka Obegolu, the 1st Deputy President, ACCI, commended the initiative and pledged more support to the ministry.

“ACCI is proud to support the ministry’s efforts in promoting the geological institute of Nigeria and the mining industry in the country.

A trainee from Edo, Ms Jessica Ogiuva who spoke on behalf of other participants, appreciated the opportunity given to them.

She promised that they would share the knowledge acquired with others in their respective states.