Ijebu North NYCN Empowers 123 Young Women with Bakery Skills in Second Training Phase

In a bold step toward reducing youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance among young women, the Ijebu North chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has successfully concluded the second phase of its bakery training program, graduating 123 participants.

The graduation ceremony took place on Friday, July 11, at the Ijebu North Local Government Secretariat Hall in Ijebu Igbo. The initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the NYCN Ijebu North leadership, Bakery Initiative, and the Challenge Fund for Youth Empowerment.

The two-week hands-on training focused on practical skills in baking and pastry production, aimed at equipping participants with the tools and knowledge to launch their own businesses in the bakery industry.

Speaking at the closing event, NYCN Coordinator, Ogbeni Abolaji Adeniyi Sobowale extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Chairman of Ijebu North Local Government, Hon. ’Bolaji Odusanya, for his unwavering support throughout the program. He also acknowledged the efforts of the local government youth officer, other stakeholders, and members of the NYCN executive for their dedication to youth empowerment.

**Left, NYCN Coordinator, Ogbeni Abolaji Adeniyi Sobowale**

“This is more than just a skill acquisition program, it’s a gateway to financial independence,” Sobowale stated. “I urge all participants to take this seriously and use their new skills to become job creators, not job seekers.”

A standout moment at the event was a testimonial by Adeoye Itunuoluwa, a beneficiary of the first training phase. She shared her success story of launching her own bakery brand, attributing her growth to the NYCN training. Her story served as motivation for the newly graduated participants, whom she encouraged to remain focused and committed to their entrepreneurial journey.

Each graduate received a certificate of completion and start-up materials to help kick-start their businesses. Several of them expressed readiness to begin operations immediately, aiming to meet the market demand with quality baked products.

The training is part of NYCN’s ongoing commitment to equipping youths with viable skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and building capacity for sustainable development.

Notable dignitaries at the ceremony included Mr. Jamiu Odugbemi (Director, Community & Social Development), Mrs. Adesanya (Deputy Director, Community & Social Development), Mr. Ganiyu Adebamiro (State Youth Officer), Mr. Gbenga Okuneye (Local Government Youth Officer), Hon. Ayotomiwa Issa (Councillor, Ward 1, Atikori), and a representative of the Department of State Services (DSS).