Haruna Abubakar Sadiq is a young, talented electrician working to modernize his craft to meet current standards.
Abubakar said that in his quest to catch up with modern techniques, he enrolled in 2018, along with many other young Nigerians, to obtain his Trade Test Certificate issued by the Federal Ministry of Labour, Employment and Productivity.
After robust training, he was certified as an electrician: “Class One standard trade test in the trade of Electrical Installation Work D&I,” reads his issued identification card.
Abubakar, who is from Zaria in Kaduna State, told First Post that becoming a qualified tradesman was his gateway to success.
He said, “My trade test certificate is for my work as an electrician. People wouldn’t give me work because I did not have my certification.”
Like any young man starting up, Abubakar initially faced the serious challenge of a lack of patronage.
He said the training has “improved patronage for my business,” and “I can easily access more job opportunities,” he explained.
He urged other young Nigerians, particularly those with a trade, to get their relevant certification. “It’s very important for anyone doing hand work,” he said.
Abubakar, who works in Zaria and its environs, is actively using social media to promote his trade. He constantly updates his social media – particularly Instagram – where he regularly posts photos of himself while working in the field.
Sadiq said he is planning to expand his business, open a branch in Abuja, and start teaching young people the trade.
“I have worked with many certified electrical engineers, and most of them have attested to the quality of my work. My biggest aim now is to go back to school and open training centers, which I want to use to give back to my country. I want more youths to have something to do. That will help reduce the unemployment rate in the country,” he concluded.
