Potter 7 Limited, in collaboration with the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Project, with support from the World Bank, has successfully trained and graduated 100 masons in Plateau State. The graduates received National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Level 2 certification alongside starter packs to support entrepreneurship and independent business development.
The graduation ceremony was held at the Government Science and Technical College (GSTC) Bukuru in Jos South Local Government Area, bringing together stakeholders from government, education, the construction sector, and traditional institutions. The event highlighted the critical role of technical and vocational education in promoting self-reliance, economic growth, and women’s inclusion in male-dominated trades.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director of Potter 7 Limited, Bldr. Lawrence Gabriel Manggei, expressed joy and pride in addressing the graduates. He described the occasion as a celebration of skills, hard work, and dedication.
Manggei thanked the IDEAS Project and the World Bank for supporting youth empowerment and encouraged the graduates to utilize their starter packs to build businesses and serve their communities. He emphasized that these packs represent both trust and opportunity.
“Quality work, integrity, and continuous learning are essential,” Manggei said, urging the graduates to uphold professional standards and make a positive impact in their communities.
Presenting an overview of the project, Prince Iheanacho, representing IDEAS Project Coordinator Mr. Blessing Ogwu, described the initiative as a celebration of skills, resilience, and the dignity of labour. He praised the inclusion of young women in a sector traditionally dominated by men, emphasizing the programme’s focus on gender equality and empowerment.
Prince Iheanacho noted that the IDEAS Project, fully launched in 2022, has renovated and equipped 38 technical colleges with over 100 modern workshops. The project has trained numerous technical teachers and master craft persons nationwide.
He added that after its 2023 restructuring, the programme now focuses on market-relevant skills to foster self-reliance. The 100 graduates in Plateau State are part of a pilot phase that has trained over 1,000 youths, with plans to expand further across Nigeria.
While presenting certificates and starter packs, former Plateau State Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Bldr. Adedeji Paul Adeleye, urged the beneficiaries to value competence over certificates. He encouraged them to use their tools responsibly, maintain professionalism, and contribute to national development.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Yusuf Gyang commended Potter 7 and IDEAS for their commitment to quality training, praising instructors for their hands-on teaching and guidance in professional standards.
Naomi Magaji expressed excitement at being part of the empowerment programme, describing the graduates as “awesome” and expressing happiness for the opportunity received.
In special remarks, Da Pius Jugu, Gwom Rwei Kuru of Jos South, encouraged graduates to apply their knowledge in practical ways that would benefit both themselves and the nation.
Former Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Fom Dalyop Gwottson, highlighted entrepreneurship and professionalism, urging graduates to use their skills and starter packs responsibly to positively impact their communities.
Bldr. A . A Okwa, Director General of C-STEMP praised the graduates for their competence, noting that the NSQ certificate is nationally and globally recognized. He also highlighted the contributions of female assistants and emphasized the critical role of artisans in national development.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Audu Alanjong, Director of Administration, Plateau State Ministry of Education, praised the project for teaching quality building skills. He encouraged graduates to share their knowledge and highlighted the importance of women’s participation in the programme.
Hon. Chomoshen Emmanuel of the Jos South Legislative arm commended the initiative for bridging knowledge gaps among masons and artisans. He encouraged graduates to take their training seriously, use their starter tools for empowerment, and contribute positively to their communities.
In a goodwill message, Mrs. Wambutda Patu, Pioneer Female Principal of GSTC Bukuru, commended the IDEAS Project for empowering graduates. She emphasized collaboration, mentorship, and continued partnerships to strengthen youth skills and promote inclusion within the TVET community.
Dr. John Iliya, Director TVET, praised Potter 7 and IDEAS for supporting skills development. He encouraged graduates to apply their acquired skills effectively, build for themselves, and contribute to the growth and improvement of Plateau State and Nigeria.
The ceremony marked a significant step in Plateau State’s vocational training and highlighted the role of women and youth in fostering socio-economic development through skilled trades.
