Abuja: 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, Mrs. Mernan Oluyede, announced this during the graduation ceremony of Batch 18/2025 at the DEPOWA Skill Acquisition Centre.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event marked the culmination of a rigorous training programme focused on equipping trainees with various skills aimed at fostering self-reliance. Mrs. Oluyede emphasized that the scheme aligns with DEPOWA’s commitment to empowering families of servicemen and women, supporting vulnerable community members, and contributing to national development through the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre.
Batch 18/2025 began their training in February and June 2025, involving 130 trainees, including widows, vulnerable individuals, and participants sponsored by various organizations and individuals. The training covered competencies in fashion design, culinary arts, bag-making, hairdressing, make-up and gele tying, production, and computer appreciation. Additionally, structured attitudinal lectures were introduced to instill discipline, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility.
Mrs. Oluyede highlighted enhancements such as improved internet connectivity for broader learning and a comprehensive internship framework to provide practical experience. The centre is equipped with modern facilities and supported by qualified instructors. All graduates have been registered as tradespeople with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, obtaining certifications to enhance their competitiveness in the labor market.
She encouraged the graduates to apply their skills responsibly, uplift communities, and commit to lifelong learning. The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, emphasized the significance of civil-military collaboration in youth empowerment and praised the graduates for their discipline and dedication.
Mrs. Grace Adachebe, representing the trainees, expressed gratitude to DEPOWA for the programme and reaffirmed the trainees’ commitment to utilizing their skills for societal benefit and national development.