…….hails vocational centre as beacon of empowerment
Gbolahan Salman Sokoto
It was a day of celebration, pride, and inspiration as the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 8 Div centre, Gingiya Barracks graduated another batch of skilled professionals from its Vocational Training Centre in Sokoto.
In a heartfelt address delivered on behalf the chairperson , Mrs. Meg Ndidi Ajose, wife of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Ibikunle A. Ajose, commended the graduates for their dedication and resilience.
Though unavoidably absent due to official commitments in Lagos, and was represented by Mrs Fatima Abass, commend the graduating students in the centre.
“You are not just graduates; you are fashion designers, tailors, makeup artists, bag makers, and more,” her statement read.
“You are innovators and job creators, building small markets and transforming communities. Your skills are valuable, your dreams are valid, and your contributions are essential to the nation.”
Highlighting the impact of the initiative, Mrs. Ajose praised the instructors and management of the NAOWA Centre for their tireless dedication in empowering women and youth within and beyond the barracks community.
“This centre is more than just a training ground.
“It is a platform for empowerment, a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for sustainable livelihoods.” she stated
The GOC 8 Div, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, who was represented by Colonel Raphael Olugbenga Adeyemi, Deputy Chief of Staff, Logistics, reaffirmed the command’s continuous support for the NAOWA Centre.
“I am truly impressed by the quality of work and the transformation I’ve seen today,” Col. Adeyemi remarked.
“The GOC will be fully briefed, and I assure you of his unwavering support in ensuring the centre achieves its objectives.”
The event also celebrated the vital contributions of Brigadier General AJ Mohammed, Commander 8 Division Garrison, whose strategic guidance and commitment played a pivotal role in the success of the program.
The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the graduates and a tour of their finished products—ranging from fashion pieces to handcrafted items, showcasing their new skills and entrepreneurial potential.
The 8 Division NAOWA chapter also reiterated its alignment with the vision of its National President, centered on “unity, service, and sustaining legacies through humanity.”
As the new graduates step into the future, they do so with confidence, purpose, and the tools to build better lives, not just for themselves, but for their communities and the nation at large.
