No fewer than 41 beneficiaries have graduated from the Batch C Skill Acquisition Programme of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, with each participant receiving N1 million as take-off capital to support their businesses.

The initiative is aimed at promoting self-reliance and strengthening community resilience through vocational and life-saving skills training.

The beneficiaries received training in fashion design, culinary arts, baking, salon services, makeup and gele styling, skills considered vital for entrepreneurship and grassroots job creation.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony in Effurun, Delta State, Founder of the foundation, Dcns Dr Esther Tonlagha, said the programme was designed to equip women and vulnerable persons with practical skills capable of transforming their lives and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society.

She said the initiative goes beyond issuing certificates, noting that participants were also provided with tools for economic independence and the ability to respond to emergencies within their communities.

Tonlagha announced that each of the 41 graduates would receive a grant of N1 million to support their transition into entrepreneurship and independent practice.

According to her, the foundation’s vision is anchored on empowering individuals with relevant skills to improve their living conditions and positively impact their families and communities.

“This is not just a celebration of completion, but a recognition of courage, growth and transformation,” she said, while urging the graduates to remain focused, resilient and committed despite future challenges.

She added that the true impact of the programme would be measured by how beneficiaries apply the acquired knowledge in building sustainable livelihoods, saving lives and supporting others in their communities.

Tonlagha also appreciated partners supporting the foundation’s empowerment initiatives across the Niger Delta region.

“Your trust and collaboration continue to drive this mission forward. You are not just supporting a programme; you are shaping lives and creating lasting impact,” she said.

Stakeholders at the event noted that programmes of this nature remain critical in addressing unemployment and social vulnerability, particularly among women and youths, while also strengthening grassroots emergency response capacity.

The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to continued mentorship and support for beneficiaries, stressing that the graduation marked the beginning of a broader journey of empowerment and community development.

In addition to the cash grants, the graduates received makeup kits, hairdressing and grooming tools, baking equipment, generators and deep freezers to support their businesses.