The scrap business in Katsina State has emerged as a significant avenue for curbing unemployment, with hundreds of youth finding livelihoods in the trade.
This development, however, has not been without its challenges and controversies.
The manager of M.S. Rimi Scraps in Katsina, Hassan Suleiman, shared his journey during an interview, shedding light on how the scrap business has transformed lives.
“There is no business creating job opportunities for young people in Katsina like the scrap business. Over 500 youths are working under me,” he said.
Suleiman, who has been in the business for over seven years, revealed that it enabled him to finance his education, acquire a National Certificate in Education (NCE), and even build his own house.
He emphasised that their operations focus solely on decayed or abandoned materials, disputing allegations of vandalism often leveled against them by authorities.
“We do not deal in valuable items. The accusations of vandalism are misplaced. The government should regulate and sanitise the business instead of arresting and extorting our people,” Suleiman urged.
The scrap collected in Katsina is transported weekly in full truckloads to southern states like Osun, Oyo, and Lagos, where it is sold to buyers.
For individuals like Kamaladeen Ahmed, the scrap trade has been a lifeline. Kamaladeen, who is now a civil engineer, recounted how he funded his university education and finished his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme through the business. “I have returned to the state and continue with the scrap business while practicing civil engineering when opportunities arise,” he said.
Kamaladeen encouraged other youths to explore opportunities in the trade, especially given the lack of government jobs and the increasing economic hardship in the country.
Despite its benefits, the scrap business has drawn criticism and scrutiny from the Katsina State government and law enforcement agencies.
Concerns about vandalism have been raised, as some unscrupulous individuals exploit the trade to steal public and private property.
The state police have frequently paraded suspects caught engaging in such activities.
The Katsina State Police Command spokesman, Sadiq Abubakar, reiterated the authorities’ stance, of arresting many individuals involved in vandalising government installations and private properties, who were often asked to face the full wrath of the law.
“We urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” he said.
While the scrap business holds immense potential to alleviate unemployment and empower the youth, it also underscores the need for stringent regulations and government oversight to eliminate criminal elements and enhance its credibility.
By addressing these challenges, the industry can become a sustainable contributor to economic growth and job creation in Katsina State.