Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has urged the youth to actively engage in skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, stressing the significance of diversifying beyond traditional academic qualifications.
The governor issued this call while meticulously inspecting the fashion shared facility, a pivotal element of the National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Clinics for Viable Enterprises in Okene, amidst the festive season.
Accompanied by Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo, Governor Bello expressed enthusiasm as he was guided through the cutting-edge facility by Hon. Rekiya Onaivo Sani, the Chairperson of the Kogi Enterprise Development Agency (KEDA).
The facility, equipped with state-of-the-art fashion machines of various grades, underwent a thorough examination by Governor Yahaya Bello. He affirmed its potential to significantly mitigate youth unemployment in the state once operational.
Governor Bello encouraged the state’s youth to seize the opportunities provided by both federal and state governments, advocating for the development of entrepreneurial skills to foster self-reliance.
Commending the management and staff of the facility for their commendable efforts in its installation, equipment, and maintenance, Governor Bello expressed his satisfaction with this forward-looking establishment.
During the visit, Hon. Rekiya provided detailed insights into the facility, revealing its extensive array of over 180 diverse grades of fashion machines. Notably, the sophisticated 4-head monogram machine, a computerized marvel designed for direct photo embroidery, stood out. With a 12-inch touch screen computer supporting 20 languages and a vast memory of 200,000,000 stitches matched with 200 patterns, this machine promises versatility and precision.
Hon. Rekiya elaborated on the machine’s capabilities, citing applications such as embroidery, printing of initials, and suitability for cap, tubular, t-shirt, and flat embroidery. The machine boasts features like automatic thread break detection, automatic thread trimming, a 270° wide cap frame, and other accessories.
Envisioning the inauguration of the Kogi fashion industry, Hon. Rekiya highlighted the myriad of business opportunities and value chains that this facility would offer.
She emphasized that one need not be a tailor or directly involved in the garment-making industry to explore the remarkable business prospects presented by this facility. It stands poised to unlock a myriad of opportunities for entrepreneurs and industry enthusiasts alike, including job creation, investment drives, and other opportunities.
