The Craft Innovation Hub (CIH) today formally presented its Automate Kwara Initiative to the Kwara State Ministry of Youth Development in a strategic session that underscored government–community collaboration for youth empowerment and digital innovation.
The Automate Kwara Initiative is designed as a free, state-supported digital training programme to equip youths with no-code automation skills, leveraging tools such as n8n and Make.com. It will enable participants to automate workflows for SMEs, NGOs, and MDAs, bridging the gap between classroom theory and workplace practice. The training will be phased, starting with a pilot of 200 – 300 youths in Ilorin before scaling across senatorial districts.
In attendance were the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Ambassador Shehu Ndanusa Usman; the Special Adviser on Digital Innovation to the Kwara State Governor, Hon. Kayode Ishola; the Director of Youth Development, Mr. Abdulsalam Akeem; Mr. Samuel; and other senior officials of the ministry. The CIH delegation was led by its Founder, Abdulrasaq Ahmed Abiodun (Ph.D in view), supported by Mr. Elerin Mubarak, Facility/Utility Manager; Abdulsomad Olose, NGO Coordinator; and Aishat Mohammed Ayoka, Media Coordinator.
Speaking at the session, Hon. Kayode Ishola, SA on Digital Innovation, described the project as “a timely intervention that aligns perfectly with the administration’s agenda for digital inclusion and youth employability. It is a welcome development for Kwara’s future workforce.”
The Commissioner, Hon. Ambassador Shehu Ndanusa Usman, praised CIH’s effort, stating: “This organization is commendable, not only for its state-of-the-art, solar-powered facility and diverse training offerings but also for its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and both state and federal policy priorities. Its roots in Adewole Ward, the Governor’s ward, make it especially meaningful.”
CIH emphasised its commitment to inclusivity, with a minimum of 40% female participation, structured mentorship for graduates, and expectations of at least 50 live automations by Phase 2. The programme is also framed around key SDGs: SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
The meeting concluded with mutual agreement on the initiative’s potential to transform youth capacity in Kwara State, offering a scalable model for digital empowerment and community transformation.
Excerpt: Craft Innovation Hub presented its Automate Kwara Initiative to the Kwara State Ministry of Youth Development, with officials commending its solar-powered facility, SDG alignment, and potential to empower youths across the state.
