By Rosemary Okoduwa
The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women, youths, and vulnerable persons through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, and strategic partnerships designed to promote sustainable livelihoods and social reintegration.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, in a goodwill message delivered on her behalf by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, during the graduation ceremony of beneficiaries of the Reintegration Support Training Programme implemented through the partnership with GIZ-ZME Nigeria.
Describing the occasion as more than a graduation ceremony, the Commissioner said it was “a celebration of resilience, empowerment, renewed hope, and deliberate investment in human capacity development.”
She noted that equipping beneficiaries with vocational and entrepreneurial skills marks a significant milestone in promoting self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods, stressing that deliberate investment in skills development, entrepreneurship, and business start-up support remains one of the most effective strategies for reducing poverty, tackling unemployment, and driving inclusive economic growth.
She reaffirmed that the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, remains committed to supporting initiatives and strategic partnerships that provide women, youths, and vulnerable persons with opportunities for economic empowerment and successful social reintegration.
The Commissioner noted that programmes such as the GIZ-ZME Reintegration Support Training align with the government’s broader vision of strengthening social protection, improving livelihoods, and equipping vulnerable individuals with the tools and confidence needed to rebuild their lives with dignity.
She commended GIZ-ZME Nigeria and other stakeholders for their collaboration in creating life-changing opportunities for beneficiaries, describing the initiative as a practical demonstration of the impact of partnership in promoting sustainable development.
Also speaking, the Director General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Hon. Lucky Agazuma, lauded GIZ-ZME Nigeria for implementing the programme, noting that it would discourage irregular migration by providing beneficiaries with viable means of livelihood within Nigeria.
He also commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his commitment to improving security across Edo State, stating that the enhanced security environment has created favourable conditions for businesses, investments, and economic growth.
Hon. Agazuma urged the beneficiaries to maximise the opportunities provided through the training, encouraging them to remain focused and entrepreneurial. He cited the success story of a food vendor who built a thriving business from an initial capital of just one thousand naira as evidence that determination and hard work can lead to lasting success.
Earlier, the Programme Component Manager of GIZ-ZME Nigeria, Mrs. Eseosa Okuku, disclosed that 80 beneficiaries successfully completed the 25-day vocational training programme in Hair Dressing and Wig Making, Curtain, Duvet and Bedspread Making, Pastries and Finger Food Production, and Hair Barbing.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates and start-up packages to the graduates to support them in establishing sustainable businesses.
Following the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, accompanied by directors and staff of the Ministry, toured the training facilities of Genius Hub Limited, where the beneficiaries acquired their vocational skills.
During the tour, the Group Director of Genius Hub Limited, Mrs. Isimeme Whyte, showcased the organisation’s facilities and highlighted its commitment to career development, creativity, technology, innovation, and equipping individuals with the skills required for the future of work.
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