Katsina State Governor, Dr. Dikko Radda, has lauded ex-governor Barr. Ibrahim Shema is to be commended for his foresight in establishing the Katsina Youth Craft Village (KYCV) during his tenure.

Radda made the commendation during the centre’s graduation ceremony for 634 trainees, as well as the distribution of starter packs worth several billion naira.

The event, held at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, featured several dignitaries, including the former governor.

Dikko said the craft village had trained thousands of youths over the years, many of whom had gone to establish their businesses and thereby become self-reliant.

The governor said Shema’s foresight had enabled many more youths to continue to receive training at the centre, with the village currently expanding to accommodate more vocational skills and trainees.

Directing his statement at Shema, the governor said, “Your visionary leadership laid the foundation for Katsina Youth Craft Village, and it is our honour to build upon that legacy.”

Radda, who commended the trainees for successful completion of their training, warned against the misuse or selling of the starter packs doled out to them.

“Today’s event, the graduation of no fewer than 634 young men and women from the Katsina Youth Craft Village, is more than a ceremonial milestone.

“It is a testament to our shared belief in the power of education, skill acquisition and opportunity as tools for transformation.

“These starter packs are not mere handouts; they are instruments of empowerment, designed to catalyse job creation, innovation, and economic independence.

“To ensure responsible use, the administration has implemented strict accountability measures, including formal agreements with graduates’ parents or guardians, robust monitoring systems, and security agency involvement.

“Let me be very clear: anyone found selling their kit will face appropriate consequences. I charge you graduates to be the pride of the state and go forth to become job creators, problem solvers and ambassadors of hope.”

Radda also announced plans to expand the centre by introducing 10 new departments, along with major renovations and re-equipping of existing facilities, positioning it as a flagship institution for skills training and youth empowerment in the country.

Speaking, Shema commended the current government for continuing and expanding the vision which he had established several years ago when he was the state governor.

“I am proud to see the centre thriving. These graduates are a testament to what we can achieve when leadership is focused and consistent,” Shema said.

He recalled some memorable milestones during his tenure, such as student-led innovations and international collaborations, and applauded the Radda administration for raising the bar.

Coordinator of the craft village, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi stated that all 634 trainee graduates were selected purely on merit from every local government area in the state.

Kabir also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a leading skills institution in Kano State to further enhance the centre’s capacity and reach.

He assured that all starter packs would be monitored through a comprehensive tracking system to ensure maximum impact.

The trainees received hands-on training in 15 specialised trades, including tailoring, catering, ICT, shoemaking, welding, carpentry, GSM repairs, pottery, and leatherwork.