The Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) has graduated 130 trainees from its Skills Acquisition Centre in Abuja, reinforcing its commitment to empowering families of servicemen and women.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Batch 18/2025 in Abuja on Saturday, DEPOWA President, Mrs Mernan Oluyede, described the event as the culmination of months of intensive training designed to promote self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
She said the initiative aligns with DEPOWA’s mandate to uplift military and police families, support vulnerable members of society, and contribute to national development.
According to her, Batch 18/2025 commenced training in February and June 2025, with participants drawn from widows, vulnerable individuals, and beneficiaries sponsored by organisations and well-meaning Nigerians.
Over the course of the programme, the trainees acquired skills in fashion designing, culinary arts, bag-making, hairdressing, make-up and gele tying, production, and computer appreciation.
Oluyede added that beyond technical training, the centre introduced structured attitudinal lectures focused on discipline, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility. Internet connectivity was also enhanced to expand digital access, while a comprehensive internship framework was implemented to provide hands-on, real-world experience.
She noted that the centre is equipped with modern facilities and supported by qualified instructors dedicated to maintaining high standards.
Importantly, all graduating trainees have been registered as tradesmen and women with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, earning Grade 3 and Grade 2 certifications to enhance their competitiveness in the labour market.
“This ensures not only skill acquisition but formal recognition within the broader workforce,” she said, urging the graduates to apply their knowledge responsibly, uplift their communities, and embrace lifelong learning.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, said the ceremony underscores the value of civil-military collaboration in youth empowerment.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, he said the graduates exemplify what structured programmes, strategic partnerships, and visionary leadership can achieve.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to initiatives that empower the families of our servicemen and women and strengthen society,” he said.
He commended the graduands for their discipline and perseverance, noting that they were transitioning from learners to skilled entrepreneurs ready to compete in the marketplace.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Mrs Grace Adachebe expressed appreciation to DEPOWA’s leadership for the opportunity and pledged that the graduates would deploy their newly acquired skills for the benefit of society and national development.
The event featured the presentation of certificates and gifts to the trainees, as well as recognition of distinguished guests.
remony of Batch 18/2025 in Abuja on Saturday, DEPOWA President, Mrs Mernan Oluyede, described the event as the culmination of months of intensive training designed to promote self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
