A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Protect the Child Foundation, on Friday launched a skill acquisition and empowerment programme for no fewer than 100 beneficiaries from Lokoja and Idah in Kogi.
At the inauguration in Lokoja, the NGO’s Executive Director, Mrs Ebulejonu Achimugu, said the initiative was aimed at combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through sensitisation, advocacy and economic empowerment.
According to her, the programme, supported by the French Embassy in Nigeria, will train beneficiaries in various skills such as fashion designing, tailoring, catering, photography and cosmetology.
“The training is designed to equip vulnerable populations, including women, girls and persons with disabilities, with skills to support themselves and their families.
“Over 100 beneficiaries from Lokoja and Idah will undergo training for two to three months and receive start-up packs upon graduation,” she said.
Achimugu said that the foundation aimed to empower beneficiaries with skills and resources to become self-sufficient and self-sustaining, rather than merely providing temporary relief.
She added that selected trainers would be closely monitored to ensure the programme’s objectives were achieved.
The state’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hajia Rabietu Okute, praised the initiative in her remarks and encouraged beneficiaries to take the training seriously.
Okute, represented by the Acting Deputy Director in the ministry, Mrs Faith Orisha, expressed the ministry’s willingness to partner with the NGO to provide support to the less privileged.
Stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), beneficiaries and project implementers, expressed their appreciation for the skill acquisition and empowerment programme.
Mr Aminu Okutepa, CSO representative, praised the foundation for complementing the state government’s poverty reduction efforts.
Beneficiaries, including Mrs Blessing Okekwu, and Ms Peace Shaibu, thanked the organisation for the opportunity to acquire new skills and receive support.
