Yobe gov. empowers communities with micro-projects

The Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni yesterday presented cheques to nine beneficiary communities for the implementation of group micro-projects and public work-fare programmes under the Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO).

He also distributed empowerment materials and equipment to youth trainees under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking on the occasion in

Damaturu, Governor Buni said the total cost for the implementation of the eight community and 10 group micro-projects is N72, 245, 368.00 with 90% of the money being government’s contribution, and the benefitting communities contributing the remaining 10 percent.

The projects to be implemented according to the governor include construction of classrooms and staff rooms, provision of furniture, drilling of boreholes, tube wells and hand pumps; installation of transformers, and community housing, among others.

“This is just a tip of the iceberg. Since its inception, the Community Social Development Programme (CSDP) has assisted in the implementation of 260 community micro projects worth over N1.1 billion. Over 500, 000 people in various communities across the state have benefitted directly and indirectly.

“Under the Youth and Social Support Operation (YESSO), over N684 million was disbursed from May 2018 to date in the implementation of targeted cash transfers to Internally Displaced Persons, underprivileged youths and vulnerable households.

So far, a register of 31, 486 households made up of 162, 707 individuals has been cleared by the World Bank. Eleven more local government areas are in line for similar World Bank Support,” he said.

He noted that the state emerged the first best performing state in the World Bank Portfolio among 19 northern states, and also the first in the Northeast and the overall best in the federation in investment project financing under the World Bank.

He also noted that the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs in collaboration with the state government had trained 185 youths in digital photography.

He urged the people to re-dedicate themselves to the values of hard work, truth, honesty and being their brothers’ keepers, adding that each of could contribute to a greater Yobe and make a difference.