Senator Lalong described Victoria as a gift to Nigeria, following her achievement of the Guinness World Record for the “Most Beaded Bracelets Made in One Hour,” with a record of 40 bracelets.
Lalong received Victoria during a visit and congratulated her for bringing honour to Plateau State and Nigeria through her exceptional talent and determination.
He said youth empowerment and entrepreneurship remain critical to addressing unemployment, crime and other social vices in the country, stressing that young people who acquire relevant skills can transform their talents into sustainable livelihoods and businesses.
The former Governor recalled that during his administration in Plateau State, deliberate emphasis was placed on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and the empowerment of young people through the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) and other government structures.
According to him, the initiatives provided opportunities for many young people to acquire skills, perfect their talents and turn them into productive enterprises.
He recalled that the efforts contributed to the emergence of successful entrepreneurs and innovators, including Jerry Mallo and Zang, among others, who became prominent examples of the potential of young Nigerians when given the right opportunities and support.
Lalong said the growth of such initiatives over the years demonstrates the importance of sustained investment in skills development and creative enterprise, adding that Victoria’s Guinness World Record is another testimony to what young Nigerians can achieve when their talents are nurtured.
He encouraged Victoria to continue developing her skills, expand her enterprise and use her achievement to inspire other young people to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
Earlier, Victoria Ishaku Anya told Senator Lalong that she achieved the Guinness World Record in 2025 and has since been working to build on her skills in bead making and expand her creative enterprise.
She expressed appreciation to Senator Lalong for his support and encouragement for skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and creative production throughout his political career, describing such initiatives as important to giving young people opportunities to become self-reliant.
Senator Lalong congratulated Victoria once again and urged her to see the record not only as a personal achievement but also as an opportunity to promote Nigerian creativity, skills and entrepreneurship to the world.
