By Folasade Akpan
In a move to translate empowerment into economic independence, Msbon Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has trained 100 women and youths in vocational and entrepreneurial skills.
The outreach, held at the Abuja Children’s Home, Karu, was part of activities to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD).
Celebrated annually on March 8, the event highlights the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and calls for inclusive development.
The 2026 IWD theme is “Give to Gain”.
Founder of the foundation, Ms Chikodi Nwanisobi, said the initiative, was driven by the theme “Skill to Income”, was aimed at promoting transformational giving.
“I would say what is significant to me is transformational giving and not just giving and letting go, but giving in a way that transforms lives.
“Their lives, income, skills, and most importantly, wellness and healthcare will be transformed,” she said.
Nwanisobi said the programme focused on equipping participants with practical skills that would improve their income, wellness and overall well-being.
She said the beneficiaries were trained in soap making, Vaseline production, disinfectants, handwash and air fresheners to enable them generate income.
“This is more of economic development and not just personal development. In turn, it becomes skills into income,” she said.
She said 100 participants, comprising 40 women, 40 youths and 20 external participants, benefitted from the programme.
“We have come to a point where it is not just about having a home; the home needs to start developing itself and fending for itself.
“That is why we are here to equip them to turn skills into income,” she said.
She stressed the need for empowerment programmes to go beyond training to include mentorship and sustainability.
The founder also called for collective efforts in empowering women, noting that government alone could not drive inclusive growth.
“I am calling on everyone, no matter how little it is, let’s reach out to our communities, empower our women, girls, and even boys.
“We can be better when we collectively come together,” she said.
Mrs Evelyn Madu, Assistant Director, Women Development, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, said empowering women was critical to national development.
“When you empower a woman, you empower the whole nation, and when you empower a girl, you are building a home,” she said.
Madu said the government was implementing policies to enhance women’s participation in governance and socio-economic activities.
“We are soliciting for more seats for women in governance so that their voices can be heard.
“If you are not there when your matter is being raised, men will take decisions on your behalf,” she said.
She added that programmes such as second chance education and distribution of gas cylinders to reduce dependence on firewood were ongoing.
Also, Mrs Aiyiamo Taiwo of the Department of Family Health, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to inclusive health and empowerment policies.
Taiwo said the ministry supported women’s participation in skill acquisition and health programmes to improve their well-being.
“The Ministry has a mandate to ensure the overall health and well-being of Nigerians, ensuring that nobody is left behind.
“With the current state of the economy, you need to improve your means to contribute effectively,” she said.
In her remarks, the Administrator of Abuja Children’s Home, Mrs Quincy Patrick, said access remained key to effective empowerment, especially for vulnerable groups.
Patrick said bringing the programme to the home had helped to remove barriers that often limit access to such opportunities.
“Empowerment is a big term, but what society needs is access to empowerment.
“By bringing this programme here, they have removed barriers and made it accessible,” she said.
Ms Ada Nwanisobi, a lawyer, described IWD as a reminder of women’s potential to excel beyond traditional roles.
“It is a day women are reminded that they can be whatever they want to be and that the era of being reduced to the kitchen has come and gone,” she said.
She, however, expressed concern over declining values among some young women.
“Beauty is not enough. When I speak, you should see substance.
“We need to sensitise women because we are beginning to lose our identity and who we truly are,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outreach also featured the donation of food items to the orphanage, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to combining empowerment with humanitarian support. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
