The Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) has graduated 130 trainees from its skills acquisition centre in Abuja as part of its mission to empower families of servicemen and women.

DEPOWA president, Mernan Oluyede, said this on Saturday in Abuja at the graduation of Batch 18/2025 of the DEPOWA Skill Acquisition Centre.

According to her, the event marked the completion of a rigorous training programme in various skills for the trainees who chose skills and self-reliance.

Mrs Oluyede said that the scheme was in fulfillment of DEPOWA’s commitment to empower the families of servicemen and women, support vulnerable members of the community, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

According to her, the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre remains a critical vehicle for achieving this mission.

”Batch 18/2025 commenced training in February and June 2025 respectively, with a total of 130 trainees comprising widows, vulnerable individuals, and participants sponsored by various organisations and well-meaning individuals.

”Over the course of their training, they acquired competencies in fashion designing, culinary arts, bag-making, hairdressing, make-up and gele tying, production, and computer appreciation.

”Beyond technical instruction, we introduced structured attitudinal lecture series aimed at reshaping mindsets towards discipline, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility.

”We strengthened internet connectivity to broaden learning exposure and digital access. A comprehensive internship framework was implemented to provide practical, real-world experience.”

She said that the centre remained equipped with modern facilities and supported by qualified, motivated instructors committed to excellence.

”All graduating trainees have been duly registered as tradesmen and women with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, obtaining Grade 3 and Grade 2 certifications. 

”This ensures not only skill acquisition but formal recognition and competitiveness within the broader labour market,” she said.

She urged them to apply their knowledge responsibly, uplift communities, and remain committed to lifelong learning.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede,  in his remarks, said the occasion underscores the importance of civil-military collaboration in youth empowerment.

Mr Oluyede was represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, who said the graduates exemplify what structured programmes, strategic partnerships, and visionary leadership can achieve.

”The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to programmes that empower the families of our servicemen and women and strengthen our society.”

He commended the graduands for their discipline, perseverance, and dedication throughout the programme.

”Today, you transition from learners to skilled entrepreneurs and tradespeople, poised to excel in competitive markets. 

”May your skills propel you to excellence, prosperity, and dedicated service to our nation,” he said.

Grace Adachebe, the representative of the trainees, expressed gratitude to the president of the DEPOWA for the skill acquisition programme.

She stated the commitment of the trainees to make good use of the skills acquired to the benefit of the society and the development of the nation.

The highlight of the event includes presentation of gifts to the trainees and some dignitaries. 

(NAN)