By Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) 8 division chapter has graduated dozens of youths from the Giginya Barracks community in Sokoto after completing intensive vocational training programs as part of their efforts to empower and foster self-reliance among youth. The beneficiaries were trained in tailoring, fashion design, make-up artistry, and catering.
The graduation ceremony, held at the NAOWA Vocational Training Centre in Giginya Barracks, drew officers, community leaders, and well-wishers, with glowing tributes paid to the efforts of the association in enhancing economic opportunities for military families and the surrounding community.
Speaking at the event, the zonal representative of NAOWA Mrs. Fatima Imamu said that the vocational training impact is noticed not just in the barracks community but beyond, according to her the initiative is changing lives by giving a new beginning to many youth.
“This program is not just about learning a trade, it’s about giving our youth hope and a future. Already, we are seeing positive change in the lives of many in this community,” Mrs.Imamu stated.
She acknowledged the contribution of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Major General Ibikunle Ajose for his unwavering support, insightful guidance and contributions which makes the initiative a success.
She also expressed gratitude to the chairperson of NAOWA 8 division chapter Mrs Meg Indidi Ajose for her dedication to the empowerment of women and youth, adding that the vocational center is a testament to her visionary leadership.
According to a 2023 report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate stood at 6.9% under the new methodology, with underemployment and lack of vocational skills still prevalent in northern states like Sokoto.
NAOWA’s initiative, observers say, is a timely intervention to equip young people with marketable skills, especially in a region where poverty levels remain high with a high number of residents who were classified as multidimensionally poor in the 2022 NBS MPI report.
The graduating students showcased their works during the ceremony, with many already planning to launch small businesses using the skills acquired from the vocational center.
One of the beneficiaries, Aishat Mukhtar, who completed tailoring training, said the experience was life-changing. “Before this training, I had no source of income. Now, I can sew professionally. I plan to open a small tailoring shop in the barracks,” she said.
With the success of graduating this set, plans are underway to expand the program to accommodate more youth and women from nearby communities.
The initiative is part of NAOWA’s broader mission to promote education, welfare, and entrepreneurship among army families across Nigeria, and it aligns with the federal government’s National Development Plan 2021–2025, which prioritizes youth empowerment and job creation.