Abuja: The Convener of the group, Bamidele Atoyebi, disclosed this at the BAT Ideology Group Military and Paramilitary Sensitisation and Empowerment Programme in Abuja on Saturday. Atoyebi said the group was established to raise men and women to drive progressive political ideals and support national development. He said the group also aimed to rebrand Nigeria’s image, facilitate government intervention projects in underserved communities, and resolve conflicts at various levels.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the vision was inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s call for like-minded leadership focused on delivering impactful projects and improving citizens’ welfare. Atoyebi noted that increased allocations to states and local governments should translate into visible, people-oriented projects to justify recent economic reforms. He stated that the group was mobilising individuals from grassroots to national levels to ensure effective governance and optimal performance in public offices.
He further explained that the group had embarked on empowerment programmes targeting military and paramilitary spouses, who he noted had been largely sidelined. The initiative, implemented across states, aims to encourage their participation in governance and improve their socio-economic status. Atoyebi added that the group had advocated free education and healthcare for children of military personnel, as well as improved welfare packages for their families.
Also speaking, Mrs. Gloria Luka, National Women Leader, Ministry and Parliamentary Wives, said the group was promoting unity, empowerment, and hope among women. Luka mentioned that the initiative was designed to equip women with skills and opportunities to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to national development. Some participants expressed optimism that the programme would improve livelihoods and give women a sense of belonging. Mrs. Deborah Emmanuel, a businesswoman, commended the initiative, saying it would enhance women’s self-reliance.