?The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has flagged off a four-month skills development initiative in Bende, Abia State, aimed at empowering 150 local youths with practical knowledge and internationally recognized certifications.

?Titled "An Artisan Training on Building Projects," the pilot scheme is sponsored by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and facilitated by Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL) in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Speaker. Abia and Enugu are the two South East states selected for the initial phase of the intervention.

?Following an intervention by the Deputy Speaker's office, Bende Local Government Area secured 130 of the 150 available slots, with participants selected across all 13 political wards.

The training schedule spans from August to November 2026, comprising two months of theoretical instruction followed by two months of practical application.

?Speaking at the launch event in Bende, Kalu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the African Development Bank, and Family Homes Funds Limited for driving a youth-centered national agenda.

He emphasized that equipping the nation's young population with tangible skills is essential for long-term economic stability and growth.

?Kalu highlighted that successful participants will receive certificates recognized both nationally and internationally, along with job placement opportunities arranged for qualifying graduates of the first phase.

He urged the trainees to remain dedicated throughout the duration of the program, framing the initiative as a foundational step toward rebuilding local communities and the country at large.

?Representing Family Homes Funds Limited, Builder Ugwueri John noted that the initiative aligns with federal efforts to reduce reliance on white-collar jobs by prioritizing vocational skills that drive the national economy.

He expressed appreciation to the Deputy Speaker for bringing the largest share of the cohort to Bende.

?Beneficiaries at the flag-off, including trainees Kalu Chinedu Peter and Dabara Samuel Fumilayo, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the Deputy Speaker, noting that the knowledge acquired during the four-month course would secure their professional futures and yield lasting benefits for the region. Organizers added that the training will be conducted in phases to accommodate additional cohorts in subsequent rollouts.