Adamawa, Turkey deepen ties, expand overseas scholarships, skills development

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Adamawa State and Turkey, with a focus on education, skills acquisition, and improving the overall well-being of citizens.

The governor disclosed that more than 100 Adamawa students are currently pursuing Masters Degrees in Turkey under the State’s scholarship scheme, adding that plans are underway to sponsor additional students for overseas studies.

Governor Fintiri made the remarks while receiving the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, who was on a working visit to the State.

He expressed satisfaction with the growing partnership, particularly in the education sector, noting that reports from Turkish Universities indicate excellent academic performance by the Adamawa-sponsored students.

The governor also commended Turkey’s support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the State and pledged to deepen engagement with the Turkish Embassy to unlock further opportunities in education and vocational training.

Describing education as a critical tool for addressing youth restiveness and curbing insurgency in the North-East, Governor Fintiri highlighted ongoing efforts to empower young people through innovation and entrepreneurship.

He pointed to the establishment of a School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship designed to offer higher-level certifications, alongside existing informal skills acquisition programmes.

According to him, the Government is upgrading the Centres to deliver National and Higher National Diploma qualifications, ensuring that graduates are both educated and job-ready.

“As we provide formal education, we are also equipping our youths with practical skills so they can contribute meaningfully to the economy from day one,” the governor said.

Governor Fintiri added that Adamawa would continue to seek stronger collaboration with Turkey to enhance its skills development infrastructure.

Earlier, Ambassador Mehmet Poroy said his visit was partly to observe the distribution of food relief to IDPs.

He reaffirmed Turkey’s support for Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and its commitment to humanitarian assistance in Adamawa State.