# Report on the Poverty Alleviation Training to Curb Insecurity in Nigeria (PATCIN) – Stream 4, 2024

## Overview  

The Barrister Sam Otoboeze Foundation proudly concluded its fourth stream of the “Poverty Alleviation Training to Curb Insecurity in Nigeria” (PATCIN) program. This year’s theme, “Building Resilience: Strategies for Youths to Thrive in a Challenging Economy,” aimed to empower vulnerable youths by redirecting their energy towards productive entrepreneurial ventures, thereby dissuading them from engaging in criminal activities contributing to insecurity.

## Program Goals  

The primary objective of PATCIN is to address the root causes of insecurity and youth involvement in crime. By equipping participants with essential crime avoidance skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, the program seeks to transform perceptions of crime and highlight the severe consequences it brings to individuals and communities.

## Event Details  

– Date: Wednesday 6^th of November, 2024

– Venue: NUJ Press Center, Nsukka

– Participants: 51 youths attended the event out of 75 invited, representing various regions of Enugu State.

– Facilitators: Notable security agencies including the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and SMEDAN, along with business training experts like Spark Hub and Oracus Digital Agency.

### Schedule of Events  

The event commenced at 9:30 AM with a warm welcome and opening prayers led by Madam Mercy Odu, a founding member and Financial Director of the foundation. Mr. Chinonso Paul Samuel, the Program Manager, served as the anchor, introducing the speakers and participants. The President of the foundation, Chief Barrister Sam Otoboeze gave a heart warming address that set the tone for the event after which a photo session was held and the training sessions began immediately

#### Training Sessions  

1. Nigerian Police Force: “Overcoming Youth Crime in Recession”  

   This session provided insights into the primary causes of youth crime, potential escape routes, and the lasting impact of criminal involvement.

2. NDLEA: “The Devastating Impact of Drug Abuse on Youths’ Economic Prospects”  

   Facilitators discussed the implications of drug abuse and its detrimental effects on the socio-economic status of youths.

3. SMEDAN: “Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential: Business Development Strategies for Youths”  

   Participants were introduced to vital business skills and strategies to enhance their entrepreneurial journeys.

4. Spark Hub: “Business Accounting Skills”  

   This session focused on the fundamentals of accounting to empower youths in managing their finances properly.

5. Oracus Digital Agency: “Harnessing Digital Technology to Increase Business Profitability”  

   Participants learned how to leverage online marketing and digital tools to enhance their businesses.

### Engagement and Feedback  

A delicious meal was served during a recess, allowing participants to network and share experiences. The program concluded with assessments to gauge participant understanding and retention of the materials presented.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Participants reported that the sessions were insightful and engaging. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from esteemed facilitators and gain practical skills relevant to their personal and professional development.

## Conclusion  

The PATCIN program’s fourth stream successfully brought together 51 enthusiastic participants, alongside team members, guests, and facilitators, totaling 73 attendees. Given the positive feedback and the evident impact of the training sessions, the Barrister Sam Otoboeze Foundation remains committed to continuing this vital initiative to empower youths and combat insecurity in Nigeria.

Next Steps:

As part of our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, participants who meet the criteria will be eligible for seed grants to start or expand their business ventures. We look forward to monitoring their progress and success in the coming months.