A bold new project aimed at transforming the lives of 100 young people in Gombe is underway, as Ishaq Abdullahi Shehu, a dedicated National Youth Service Corps member from Kano State, turns his agricultural expertise into a community development program. The initiative focuses on modern fish farming techniques designed to combat youth unemployment and boost local food production.
Ishaq, a graduate of agriculture from Kano University of Science and Technology Wudil with specializations in forestry, fisheries, and wildlife, is committed to changing the perception of farming. “Agriculture must be seen as a viable business, not just a way of life,” he explains. His program centers on the innovative Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS), a method that recycles water through mechanical and biological filtration to allow for high-density, sustainable fish farming while minimizing the use of land and water.
Gombe, like many parts of Nigeria, is grappling with the dual challenges of widespread youth unemployment and an agricultural sector hindered by outdated practices, limited resources, and the adverse effects of climate change. By introducing modern techniques such as RAS, Ishaq hopes to offer young people—especially women—a practical pathway to establishing their own agribusinesses. The training is structured to equip them with essential skills in fish farming, business management, and entrepreneurship, thereby creating opportunities for sustainable income and improved livelihoods.
The program was developed after extensive consultations with local communities and stakeholders. These discussions revealed a pressing need for:
• Practical Training in Modern Aquaculture: Introducing youths to RAS technology and other contemporary fish farming techniques.
• Entrepreneurial Skill Development: Bridging the gap between traditional farming practices and the dynamic demands of agribusiness.
• Access to Technology and Innovation: Ensuring that modern agricultural practices are available to those who need them most.
• Mentorship and Continuous Support: Providing ongoing guidance to secure the long-term success of new agribusiness ventures.
Ishaq’s initiative is not only a direct response to unemployment but also a strategy to contribute to national food security. By fostering a new generation of skilled agripreneurs, the project aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on food imports and stimulate local economic growth.
The project has already garnered interest from various stakeholders including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders, all of whom see the potential for a transformative impact on Gombe’s rural communities. “Investing in our youths means investing in the future of our nation,” says Ishaq, urging local and national partners to support the effort.
As this initiative unfolds, its success could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. With dedicated young leaders like Ishaq Abdullahi Shehu at the helm, the future of sustainable agriculture in Nigeria appears promising, driven by innovation, community engagement, and a shared vision for progress.
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