The Yobe State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has trained and empowered 300 Volunteer Security Outfits (VSOs) as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize and rebuild communities affected by insurgency.
The beneficiaries men and women who once defended their communities at the height of Boko Haram attacks completed a vocational and peace-building programme funded by the European Union.
Executive Secretary of SEMA, Dr. Goje Muhammad, represented by the Director of Search and Rescue Operations, Dr. Ibrahim Jalo Muhammad, said the support package, including start-up kits and cash grants, is designed to strengthen community stability through economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.
He noted that the volunteers, once frontline defenders, are now being equipped with skills to help them transition into civilian life and contribute to long-term peace and development.
UNDP representative, Malam Babagoni Muhammad, said the trainees acquired skills in painting, POP design, charcoal briquette production, interlocking brick making, solar installation, and aluminum pot production. Beneficiaries were selected from Potiskum, Damaturu, and Gujba LGAs.
According to him, the initiative aims to transform the former community defenders into economically empowered citizens capable of sustaining themselves and contributing positively to their communities.
