COWA National President Commends DEPOWA Efforts in Women’s Empowerment
…As Skills Centre Graduates Over 100 Students
Author: Muhammad Bashir.
The National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adewale Adeniyi, has commended the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) for its dedication to empowering women and vulnerable individuals through skills acquisition programs.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 111 students from the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre in Mambila Barracks, Abuja, on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, Mrs Adeniyi highlighted the transformative impact of such initiatives on individuals and communities.
In her remarks, She reiterates that “skills acquisition is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s fast-paced world, and it equips an individual with the tools to unlock their potential, achieve financial independence, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, also praised DEPOWA’s efforts, emphasising that equipping individuals with skills directly reduces insecurity by fostering thriving communities.
General Musa further commended the DEPOWA leadership under the presidency of his wife, Mrs Oghogho Musa, for instilling discipline, adaptability, and innovation in the graduands. He added that these qualities will be essential as they navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Earlier, the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Musa, in her opening speech, reflected on the Skill centre journey since its inauguration on 6 June 2024. She described the graduation ceremony as a significant milestone in her administration’s efforts to empower women and vulnerable individuals.
Mrs Musa also acknowledged her husband, General Musa, for his unwavering support and extended special gratitude to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her inspiration and guidance through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
Similarly, Benjamin Ananya, Coordinator of the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre, outlined the programme’s achievements, highlighting that 111 participants, including 36 widows and 74 vulnerable individuals, had received extensive training.
He stated that the programme aimed at producing globally competitive entrepreneurs who are self-sufficient and proficient with their skills.
He also highlighted the comprehensive internship programme, which provided hands-on experience to prepare the graduands for successful careers.
According to him, the graduates were trained in a variety of skills, including fashion design, makeup artistry, ICT, and catering, with each department ensuring professional-level competence.
