Francis Dufugha
By Christopher Tom, Uyo
The Coastland Institute of Entrepreneurial Studies (CIES) has called on Nigerian youths to take advantage of its forthcoming entrepreneurial education programme to acquire practical skills, become self-reliant and emerge as employers of labour rather than job seekers.
The President-General of the institute, Hon. Elder Fred Obot, made the call during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, JP.
Obot explained that the institute was established to change the mindset of Nigerian youths who traditionally aspire to secure white-collar jobs after graduation, stressing the need to embrace entrepreneurship as a viable pathway to economic independence and wealth creation.
He said CIES would provide practical training in various fields of entrepreneurial studies, with the objective of equipping participants with the knowledge and skills required to establish businesses, create employment opportunities and contribute to national development.
According to him, the institute is committed to delivering entrepreneurial education that meets international standards, adding that its programmes would help address unemployment and reduce pressure on the country’s already saturated labour market.
Obot further disclosed that the institute had come to stay and was poised to expand its activities across Akwa Ibom State and other parts of the country.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would contribute to transforming Akwa Ibom and Nigeria into major industrial and investment destinations in Africa, revealing that prospective investors had already indicated interest in visiting the state next month.
The CIES president also disclosed that the institute had established a large-scale farm in Ini Local Government Area, where various crops had been planted as part of its practical agricultural entrepreneurship initiatives.
Responding, the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, JP, commended the institute’s leadership for its commitment and determination to establish and sustain the institution in Akwa Ibom State despite the challenges.
The royal father expressed optimism that the forthcoming programme would create opportunities for young people to acquire relevant entrepreneurial skills, become economically productive and contribute meaningfully to society.
He noted that the initiative would help engage youths positively, keep them away from criminal activities and redirect their energies towards productive ventures.
He therefore encouraged Nigerian youths to take advantage of the programme, urging them not to surrender to difficulties or circumstances but to remain determined in pursuing their aspirations.
Also speaking, the National Secretary of CIES, Hon. Steve Ibia, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to providing Nigerian youths with quality entrepreneurial education.
Ibia disclosed that the Ministry of Education had already recognised the institute, assuring that the management would fulfil its responsibilities towards ensuring the success of the programme.
He said the institute was prepared to play its part in addressing youth unemployment by providing practical entrepreneurial knowledge and training that would enable graduates to establish businesses and become employers of labour.
The institute expressed confidence that its forthcoming educational programme would open new opportunities for young Nigerians and contribute to economic growth, industrial development and job creation.
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