By Nkechi Eze
Amidst the rhythmic hum of anticipation and the bright smiles of proud families, the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) Skills Acquisition Centre in Abuja played host to a momentous celebration as Batch 18/2025 marked the successful completion of their training. The graduation ceremony was a vivid testament to resilience, purpose, and transformation, reflecting the enduring impact of a programme designed to empower families, youth, and vulnerable members of the barracks community.
The event was graced by Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, Chief of Defence Civil Military Relations, representing the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM, SAN. In his keynote address, Rear Admiral Lawal described the graduation of 130 trainees as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision meets commitment and opportunity is met with determination. He emphasized that the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre represents a long-term initiative that equips participants with practical, market-relevant skills, fostering economic self-reliance, dignity of labour, and sustainable livelihoods.
“By empowering young men and women within the barracks community, this programme provides tools for independence, creativity, and contribution to society,” he stated. “Whether in fashion design, culinary arts, hairdressing, bag-making, computer studies, or other trades, these skills hold the power to transform lives and communities. I urge all graduates to apply them with discipline, integrity, and innovation, while remaining open to continuous learning and self-improvement.”
In her welcome address, Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, President of DEPOWA, described the graduation as a celebration of determination and opportunity. She acknowledged the foundational contributions of her predecessor, Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, wife of the Honourable Minister of Defence, under whose tenure this batch was initiated.
“This milestone is not the achievement of one administration alone,” Mrs. Oluyede said. “It is the product of institutional continuity and visionary leadership. Today, we honour 130 individuals who chose growth over limitation, skill over dependency, and purpose over circumstance.”
Mrs. Oluyede highlighted the comprehensive nature of the training programme, which included fashion design, culinary arts, bag-making, hairdressing, make-up and gele tying, production, and computer appreciation. Beyond technical instruction, the programme incorporated attitudinal lectures designed to instill discipline, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility. Enhanced internet connectivity broadened learning exposure, while a structured internship framework offered trainees practical, hands-on experience under the guidance of dedicated instructors.
The DEPOWA President also informed guests that all graduating trainees had been registered as tradesmen and women with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, obtaining Grade 2 and Grade 3 certifications, ensuring not only skill acquisition but formal recognition in the labour market.
Addressing the significance of the programme, Mrs. Oluyede noted that the barracks community has endured significant challenges, with many widows, orphaned children, and other vulnerable members. “This programme provides families an opportunity to improve their economic circumstances, gain independence, and live with dignity, especially in households where the head is absent due to service to the nation,” she said. Starter packs distributed to graduates enable them to establish businesses, sustain livelihoods, and secure self-sufficiency.
Mrs. Oluyede also acknowledged the sacrifices of military and police families, particularly spouses, emphasizing the courage required to endure long periods of separation and the dangers faced by serving personnel. “This initiative, in its own way, shows our care for families and provides tangible support to boost morale,” she said.
Former DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, expressed both humility and excitement, reflecting on the programme she pioneered. “It is truly a joy to see what began as a vision come to life. I thank God Almighty for making all of this possible and for guiding us throughout the journey. I also commend my sister, the current President, for taking the initiative and running with it so effectively. Her dedication ensures that the programme continues to empower countless lives,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mrs. Grace Attachibe described the experience as a fulfilled promise. She expressed gratitude to God, DEPOWA leadership, instructors, management, and staff for their guidance, patience, and professionalism. She also thanked families, loved ones, sponsors, and guests, acknowledging that their support was instrumental in the trainees’ success. “As we stand on the threshold of a new beginning, we promise to carry forward the values, knowledge, and skills imparted to us. We will use them to create opportunities, uplift others, and contribute positively to society,” she said.
Beneficiaries shared their own reflections on the impact of the programme. A tailoring graduate said, “I am very, very happy. I thank God because it was not easy, but He saw us through.” Abdulfatai Hussain, also trained in tailoring, described his graduation as a memorable milestone and noted plans to expand his skills into a thriving business. Destiny Kadaus, passionate about fashion design, expressed her determination to establish a business if she acquires the necessary equipment and extended heartfelt thanks to the DEPOWA President and her husband. John Awuse, another fashion design graduate, intends to set up an affordable business in his rural community to support the less privileged.
The graduation ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates, distribution of starter packs, an exhibition of products created by the trainees, and group photographs. It was a vivid demonstration of the transformative power of skills acquisition, mentorship, and structured empowerment initiatives. The event stood as a testament to DEPOWA’s enduring commitment to uplifting families, inspiring hope, and shaping sustainable futures for communities across the nation.
