The Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), has trained 101 wives of Nigerian Army officers in vocational skills and entrepreneurship as part of efforts to strengthen household incomes and promote economic resilience among military families.

The initiative was implemented in partnership with the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 63 Brigade Chapter, Delta State, through a six-day Vocational and Entrepreneurship Enhancement Programme held in Warri, Delta State.

The programme is designed to advance women’s economic empowerment, strengthen household resilience and contribute to Nigeria’s broader development priorities. It also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 on No Poverty and SDG 5 on Gender Equality.

The training provided 101 women with practical, hands-on skills in bread-making, makeup, gele, leatherwork, and Adire (tie-and-dye).

Beyond vocational training, participants were also equipped with knowledge in business planning, record-keeping, pricing, customer relations and access to financial services, aimed at enabling them to convert their newly acquired skills into sustainable sources of livelihood.

VCDF said it would provide the beneficiaries with six months of Business Advisory Services, including mentorship and technical guidance, to help them immediately apply their skills and commence or strengthen enterprise activities.

A ceremony was held at the conclusion of the training, where tailored business start-up kits were presented to the beneficiaries to support the establishment and expansion of their businesses.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Army 3 Battalion, Major A. Haruna; Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Delta State Chapter, Eyitoyosi Shonibare and a representative of SEEPCO.