By Sunday Apah
The Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), 6 Division Chapter, Mrs. Maryam Almustapha Abdussalam, emphasized the crucial role of skill acquisition for youth, regardless of their educational backgrounds, as a means to foster self-sufficiency and address the significant unemployment challenges faced in the country.
Mrs. Abdussalam made this statement during a goodwill message at the inauguration of a newly established Skill Acquisition Centre. This centre, built by High Chief Peter Onajite Esievo, Managing Director of Evomec Global Services Limited, is named after the late Chief of Army Staff’s wife, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja. The event took place at the 3 Battalion Barracks in Effurun, Delta State.
She expressed her appreciation for the Nigerian Army leadership, particularly the 63 Brigade and 3 Battalion, for their visionary initiative in creating a skill acquisition centre aimed at supporting the children of soldiers residing in the barracks. Mrs. Abdussalam also praised High Chief Esievo for his dedication in bringing the project to fruition, ensuring its timely completion for the benefit of the community.
However, she urged for the ongoing maintenance of the centre, stating that the true value of such initiatives relies on their upkeep. Without proper care, she warned that the centre might lose its purpose within a short time.
“We are all aware that a significant challenge in our nation is the lack of a maintenance culture. I strongly appeal for this project to receive the attention it needs to thrive. If we neglect to maintain it, it may unfortunately become ineffective in a year’s time,” she asserted.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Onyinye Unachukwu, Zonal Coordinator for NAOWA 63 Brigade and the chief host for the event, highlighted the project’s importance for the youth in the barracks. She noted that it would create an opportunity for skill development, leading to greater self-reliance.
She enumerated the various skills that will be offered at the centre, including Catering, Tailoring and Fashion Design, Adult Education, Information and Communication Technology, Bead Making, as well as Barbing and Hair Salon services, Soap Making, Make-Up, and Woodwork/Metalwork, along with a Cradle Area for children of participants.
Mrs. Unachukwu praised High Chief Peter Onajite Esievo for his continued support through various projects that enhance the living conditions of those in the barracks, commending his commitment to uplifting the community.
“High Chief Peter Onajite Esievo, the Ugherughe of Agboh Kingdom, has exemplified friendship with the Brigade through his thoughtful contributions to personnel welfare and development,” she stated.
“Thanks to him, our women and youth, including those whose husbands or fathers are actively serving in conflict zones in the Northeast or elsewhere, now have the chance to acquire valuable empowerment skills in a supportive environment.”
She encouraged the barracks community to fully utilize this exceptional opportunity, expressing gratitude to High Chief Esievo for this legacy project and his unwavering support for military families.
“Our prayer is for the Almighty to bless you abundantly. You have truly become part of the Brigade’s history and have inscribed your name in gold,” she concluded.
During his address, High Chief Peter Onajite Esievo noted that the decision to establish the skill acquisition centre was made after consultations with the High Command of 63 Brigade and 3 Battalion, who recognized the positive impact it would have on the barracks community.
Represented by Chief Eric Eseoghene at the event, High Chief Esievo reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with the military in improving the welfare of the barracks, pledging to continue contributing to the community’s development, particularly in Warri and its surrounding areas.
