Why I launched NYELA project – Mukhtar

Muhammad Kabir Mukhtar, a dynamic force in the fields of construction, property development, and real estate, is making significant impact empowering Northern Nigerian Youths with his initiatives.
His journey is not just about bricks and mortar; rather he is about building lives and futures.

Muhammad Kabir Mukhtar, often known as ‘KB’, launched the NYELA Project and also founded Grassroot Learning Support Initiative, a catalyst for change in the lives of underprivileged youths, women, and children. His commitment to reshaping destinies and igniting lasting change is evident in every endeavour he takes on.

Kabir’s career path wasn’t always rooted in philanthropy and empowerment. With a background in Electrical and Telecommunication Engineering, he embarked on a journey that saw him managing construction projects, navigating the complexities of property development, and excelling in the real estate industry.

“I’ve always been a self-motivated and extremely hardworking individual,” Kabir humbly admits. Over the years, he has managed a diverse portfolio of projects, including farming, printing, procurement, and production.

Kabir’s educational journey also reflects his global outlook. He holds a B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, and an MSc in Telecommunications Engineering from Middlesex University, UK.

Kabir’s journey took a transformative turn when he turned his gaze to Northern Nigeria, a region grappling with unique challenges. According to him:

“I couldn’t ignore the disparities and immense potential of the Northern youths. Unfortunately, the media mostly portrays only the negative aspects. All you need to do is to visit Kaduna, Gombe, Kano, Borno, Adamawa, Katsina, Jigawa etc, you will meet very talented and skilful youths.

All they need is an enabling environment to encourage them to do more and an opportunity for them to express their unbelievable talents and skillsets. The popular idea is to wait for the Government to provide answers, but the truth is that the Government is carrying too much that it can barely do enough.

From my experience in the United Kingdom (UK) I know that real development has to do with private sector participation. Unfortunately, there are very few private organizations active in the North. This is clear that ‘someone’ has to push so I decided to be that ‘someone’ hoping that others perhaps will see the little efforts and decide to join me in harnessing the youthful energy for our regional and national development rather than just blaming them.”
It was this realization that sparked the creation of the Northern Youth Empowerment and Leadership Accelerator (NYELA).

NYELA’s journey is set to begin with impactful pilot editions in Kaduna, Kano, and Katsina from October to December 2023. The Project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, the North East Development Commission’s mandate, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“NYELA is more than a project; it’s a comprehensive approach to empower Northern Nigerian youths. We aim to foster their personal growth, economic empowerment, and active participation in National Development,” Kabir passionately explains.

“Our vision is clear: to empower tomorrow, today,” Kabir emphasizes. “We believe that every youth has untapped potential, and with the right support, they can become leaders and change-makers.”

As we conclude our conversation with Muhammad Kabir Mukhtar, it’s impossible not to be inspired by his journey and his vision for NYELA. It’s a testament to the power of one person’s determination to create positive change.

Muhammad Kabir Mukhtar’s story and his ground-breaking NYELA Project are a beacon of hope, inviting us all to join the mission of Empowerment and Transformation. It’s a reminder that each of us, in our own way, can make a difference and create a better tomorrow.