Tinubu Commissions Institute Of Vocational Training, Unveils 100 CNG Buses In Kaduna

By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, commissioned the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Kaduna, marking a major step towards youth empowerment and workforce development in the state.

The initiative, strongly aligns with Gov. Uba Sani’s vision for economic inclusion and human capital growth, is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills for self-reliance and employment.

While at the Murtala Mohammed Square, President Tinubu also unveiled 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, part of the state government’s efforts to modernize public transportation and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

The projects are part of the broader agenda of both the federal and Kaduna State governments, focusing on infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, and economic growth.

In his remarks, former Vice President, Arc. Namadi Sambo,  expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness the commissioning of various projects in Kaduna, particularly the 300-bed specialist hospital.

Sambo described the hospital’s commissioning as the fulfilment of a vision that began in 2009 during his tenure as Governor of Kaduna State.

“Today, we celebrate the realisation of a project that was conceived over 16 years ago. It is a dream come true for the people of Kaduna,” he said.

He recalled that as governor, he was confronted with a painful healthcare reality fewer than 3,000 hospital beds were available for a population exceeding six million.

Sambo noted that the situation worsened when Kaduna metropolis lost its 800-bed hospital following the relocation of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital to Shika, Zaria.

“Many families were forced to travel outside the state in search of specialist medical care. Our goal was to reverse health tourism and provide world-class medical services at home,” he said.

The newly commissioned 300-bed specialist hospital is expected to significantly boost healthcare delivery in the state and reduce the pressure on tertiary medical centres.

Speaking at the event, Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, commended President Tinubu for what she described as a focused leadership that is “refocusing the country and renewing citizens’ hope in governance.”

She noted that the president’s commitment to resilience and sustainable development has laid a solid foundation for national progress.

According to her, the vocational institute is a component of the Tinubu administration’s efforts to create jobs, drive economic development, and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.

She also praised Gov. Uba Sani for running an inclusive and people-centered administration.

In his remarks, Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), described Kaduna as a growing hub for skills development in Nigeria.

He noted that while the state faces significant challenges related to youth unemployment and economic diversification, vocational training presents a viable solution.

“Vocational training and skills development are widely recognised as a pathway to empower individuals with practical knowledge, enhance self-reliance, and ensure gainful employment,” Bugaje said.

Speaking also ,the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmad Nuhu Bamali, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visit to Kaduna and his continued support in commissioning legacy projects across the state.

Emir of zazzau who spoke on behalf of the traditional council, described the projects as impactful and unforgettable contributions to the state’s development.

He also appreciated the collaboration between President Tinubu and Gov. Uba Sani, particularly in the area of security management.

“We are witnessing the return of peace to various parts of the state, especially in Giwa and Igabi local government areas, as well as the southern zone of Kaduna,” he said.

The royal father reaffirmed the support of the traditional institution for the government’s efforts towards lasting peace and development. 

Dignitaries present at the commissioning included the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen; and the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, among others.

The project is part of a broader effort to improve health infrastructure and service delivery in Kaduna State.