27,986 persons unemployed in Taraba – Catholic clergy raises alarm

Rev. Father Maurice Kwairanga had revealed that 27,986 people in Taraba State are unemployed, representing 1.9% of the population.

Speaking at the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo’s Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) program, he highlighted how unemployment contributes to crime, militancy, and social unrest, affecting both individuals and society.

To address the issue, the Diocese launched a skills acquisition program called “From the Street to the Credence,” aimed at training 100 disadvantaged youths in various trades, including masonry, carpentry, tailoring, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Father Kwairanga stressed that promoting entrepreneurship and equipping youths with practical and technological skills would help them secure employment and contribute to national development.

Rev. Father Clement Tiba, JDPC Jalingo Diocese’s Coordinator, stated that the commission has been active since the 1990s, implementing programs focused on youth and women empowerment, human rights protection, sanitation, food security as, and governance. He noted that many communities in the state still lack access to potable water, and through partnerships with organizations like Misereor, Germany, JDPC has been working to provide clean water and sanitation solutions.

Bishop Charles Hammawa urged parents to encourage their children to embrace hard work instead of relying entirely on them for financial support. He called on youths to take up small businesses and vocational activities, noting that perseverance in such endeavors can lead to long-term success.