Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed has approved  over N20 million for the sponsorship of 15 graduates from the state to study at the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), Abuja.

The 15 youths, who were picked from the three senatorial districts of the state are to undergo training under the institute's Graduates Skills Development Programme.

Speaking during the official presentation of letters of admission to the beneficiaries at the Conference Hall, Governor's Office, Ilorin, Governor Ahmed, who spoke through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Isiaka Sola Gold said the sponsored youths were part of the 50 participants  expected to participate in the internship programme.

The sponsorship, according to the SSG, covered tuition, accommodation and other logistics, adding that the idea of sponsoring the youths for the training was a calculated attempt by the government to equip them with the prerequisite skills that would enable  them build a career in the power sector.

He said: "It is designed specifically to provide practical  knowledge and skill required for generation, transmission and distribution chains of the country's growing power sector, it will entail intensive orientation, classroom and  practical field work. The programme, which will last for one year is specially designed to equip electrical and mechanical engineering graduates with relevant skill to build a viable career in the power sector.

"It is imperative to mention that the programme is aimed at positioning the beneficiaries for the obvious employment opportunity in Nigeria's growing power sector.”

The SSG considered the beneficiaries lucky for the golden opportunity, saying the statistical information from Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) successor companies said it would need up to 8,400 technically skilled staffers while about 16,200 additional skilled technical man power would be required in the sector.

Also speaking on the occasion, Special Assistant to the governor on Youth Empowerment, Alhaji Sakariyau Babatunde said only candidates with engineering background were selected based on available database of KWABES.

Babatunde added that the government had concluded arrangement to equally train non-graduates, adding that the administration would partner with NAPTIN on its International Vacation Centre at Ajase-Ipo in Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.