The Federal Government has launched the National Sewing Championship (NSC) for 2025, targeting youths aged 12 to 22 across Nigeria.

While inaugurating the program in Abuja, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad, emphasized the importance of skills acquisition among the country?s youth.

She stated that the competition aims to transform ?our drive toward skill development and boost our economy by empowering individuals across the nation through this championship.?

Ahmad explained that NSC25 provides a platform for Nigerian youths to showcase their talents in fashion, tailoring, and the textile industry.

The Minister further highlighted that the textile industry plays a vital role in promoting the country?s cultural identity, giving a unique sense of belonging to Nigerian traditions.

?You can earn much more money sewing than in a white-collar job?it depends on your dedication. With good sewing skills, you can actually become an employer of labor,? she said.

She added, ?It is only through collaboration and support that we can create a sustainable platform that will uplift the lives of our youth,? calling on all relevant stakeholders to support the project.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, commended the initiative, stating that skills acquisition is the easiest way to create jobs for youths.

Represented by her Special Assistant (SA), Madida Kuku, the Minister noted that NSC25 presents an opportunity for youths to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation in the fashion and textile industry.

?This competition is a platform that showcases incredible designers and tailors who continue to shape our fashion industry with originality and excellence,? she said.

She further explained that the program goes beyond sewing clothes?it?s an avenue for developing skills that empower millions and create jobs for youths.

The Minister urged young people to take the opportunity seriously and equip themselves with valuable skills.

On her part, the Coordinator of the project and Executive Director of Ladi Memorial Foundation (LMF), Mrs. Rosemary Osikoya Ojechenemi, said the program is designed to empower youths to become financially independent.

She commended the Ministers of State for Education and FCT for their support and called for further backing from stakeholders to encourage and motivate children in their communities, schools, and localities to participate.

?Until we reach a point where you can get opportunities based on merit, rather than connections, we cannot say we have achieved our dream of a flourishing Nigeria,? Ojechenemi stated.

Enrollment forms for the third edition of the National Sewing Championship (NSC25) are now available across the 36 states of the federation, including the FCT. (Nigerian Tribune)

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