Empowerment: 1,000 Northern Youths to Receive ICT Training By US-based Association

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

A thousand youths from across northern states of the country are to be trained in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as part of efforts at empowering youths from the region.

The training is part of efforts of US-based organisation, Zumunta Association USA Inc, which plans to host its 2025 Annual Convention between July 14-25 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The association which was formed in New York, US in 1991 has since its inception given scholarships to over 5,000 science students in Northern Nigeria in the value of above N100 million.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the President of the Association, Mr. Sunday Bitrus, said apart from the ICT Training, a medical outreach would be organised between June 14-23 at the Gudi General Hospital, Akwanga, Nasarawa State to provide top medical care for members of the public.

Bitrus, who disclosed the association is non-partisan and non-religious organisation dedicated to representing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Nigeria, and also promoting a positive image of the country globally through the impactful actions of its members, said Zumunta Association remains committed to serving the needs of members, partnering with host communities and promoting unbiased, inclusive discourse on national development.

He noted: “Our flagship Scholarship Programme has transformed the lives of over 5,000 science students in Northern Nigeria, with over N100 million disbursed since inception. We receive more than 810,000 applications annually, a testament to the scale of need – and a call to action for donors and partners.

“We’ve spearheaded numerous palliative projects through partnerships with over 30 NGOs. Our work includes: School renovations; Health interventions; Community development initiatives across all 19 northern states and the FCT.

“In 2024, we joined hands with the government to enroll vulnerable populations into Essential Health Care Package programmes, combating illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, and reducing under-5 mortality rates.”

He noted that during the Convention apart from the ICT Training and Medical Outreach, other activities lined up include Zumunta Golf Classic Tournament; Tennis Tournament, Business Meeting on Strategic Sectors such as Agriculture, Mining and Minerals, Health, and Housing; Gala, Awards and Fundraiser; Engagement with Traditional Rulers and Stakeholders.

Earlier, the Chairman/CEO, (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, commended the efforts of the organisation towards development of the country.

Dabiri-Erewa, represented by the Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, said the scholarships to 5,000 students was highly commendable and that NIDCOM would want to collaborate with the association in more areas.