The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has inaugurated a new skills acquisition centre built by the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), in Karu, Abuja.
The COWA Skills Acquisition Centre, which was inaugurated on Saturday, was established to empower the wives of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officers, their families, and members of the host community, contributing to economic prosperity.
According to the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, the initiative is designed to equip beneficiaries with essential skills that will enhance their economic independence and growth. She said the centre will offer diverse training programs in information and communication technology, tailoring, fashion design, shoe and bag making, catering, food spice production, and salon services, among others.
Representing the First Lady at the event, Mrs. Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, commended COWA for its impactful initiative. She highlighted that the establishment of the centre aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty, a key component of the “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Mrs. Tinubu expressed confidence that the skills acquisition centre would play a significant role in equipping families and the local community with vital skills to navigate the evolving economic landscape.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, praised the strategic location of the centre in Karu, which houses 80% of junior customs officers. He noted that the centre forms part of the NCS’s corporate social responsibility efforts, which also include providing medical facilities to host communities.
CGC Adeniyi described the centre as a pivotal project for advancing women, children, and community development in Nigeria.
“We envision that beneficiaries of this centre will contribute significantly to developing our economy,” Adeniyi said. He also announced plans to prioritise skills acquisition projects at the Seme Border to empower families of officers stationed there.
Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, President of COWA, underscored the centre’s mission as a “beacon of empowerment” where women can unlock their potential, nurture their talents, and enhance their socio-economic status. She urged COWA members to take full advantage of the training programs to improve their lives and those of their children.
“The COWA Skills Acquisition Centre stands as a beacon of empowerment, a radiant oasis where women from all walks of life can converge to discover their hidden potential, nurture their talents, and unlock their dreams. This magnificent edifice, born from our collective vision and unwavering dedication, serves as a sanctuary of skill-building, a hub of innovation, and a launching pad for personal and professional growth.
“Within its walls, the Centre offers a diverse array of training programs, carefully crafted to equip women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world. As a testament to the transformative power of education and empowerment, the COWA Skills Acquisition Centre shines brightly, illuminating the path to a brighter future for generations of women to come,” Mrs Adeniyi said.
She said when women are empowered, they become catalysts for positive change, driving economic growth and fostering a more equitable and just society.
“Furthermore, we urge you all to take ownership of this Skills Acquisition Centre and ensure its proper maintenance and upkeep. Let us work together to guarantee that this Centre fulfils its purpose and continues to serve as a valuable resource for generations to come. By doing so, we can ensure a lasting legacy that will benefit our community for many years,” she added.