By Atoyebi Nike
About 200 young women and girls in Yobe State have received hands-on training in various vocational skills through an empowerment programme organised by the Women Wing of the Maigari Youth Organization (MYO).
Held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Federal College of Education, Potiskum, the programme aimed to promote entrepreneurship, economic self-reliance, and community development among women—especially those vulnerable to poverty and social challenges.
Speaking during the event, the facilitator and Federal Commissioner representing Yobe State at the Federal Character Commission, Alhaji Jibrin Mai Gari, said the initiative was designed to tackle unemployment and vulnerability among uneducated women and girls. Represented by Mamman Maje, Alhaji Mai Gari noted that such interventions are key to reducing societal issues such as street hawking, prostitution, child abuse, broken marriages, and rape.
He announced that each participant would receive a token as startup capital and assured that plans were underway to extend similar empowerment programmes to men through government-owned vocational centers across all local government areas.
In her remarks, the Women Leader coordinating the programme, Hajiya Habiba Abubakar, described the training as timely and essential, especially given the current economic realities in Nigeria. She encouraged women to take charge of their households and reduce overdependence on their spouses.
Hajiya Habiba also urged parents to enroll their children in vocational skills training at a young age to prepare them for a more independent future.
Participants were taught practical skills in the production of room fresheners, Vaseline, and liquid soap. Many beneficiaries expressed optimism, saying the knowledge gained would help them build sustainable livelihoods and improve their quality of life.
