Group empowers 200 women with entrepreneurship skills to boost productivity

As part of efforts aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment in the country, a non-governmental organisation, Fountain of Life for the Needy Foundation (FOLF) has empowered over 200 women including physically challenged individuals with requisite entrepreneurial skills to be self-reliance.

At the three-day training workshop held at Amuwo Odofin Local government Secretariat, Festac, Lagos to mark the ten-year anniversary of the foundation, beneficiaries were trained in makeup artistry, hat making and stove thread making skills.

Speaking at the event, Executive Director of the foundation, Joyce Oduah said the group made women empowerment a focal point for the betterment of the women, their families and the society at large.

Oduah hoped by touching many lives, reduce poverty and unemployment in the country would reduce.

Commending the level of trainees’ enthusiasm, the director said the foundation’s target was to train 100 beneficiaries but over 200 individuals indicated interest in the training exercise.

She however promised that the group would select and empower the best five trainees with materials relevant to the skill learnt at the grand finale of the anniversary celebration.

Oduah urged the beneficiaries to apply themselves to the training and develop their skills and enterprise to make money and support their families.

She said through self-reliance the beneficiaries would help reduce burdens on the society and government.

Chairman of the local government, Engr. Valentine Oluwaseyi Buraimoh lauded the organisers for empowering the women and contributing to
the development of the country.

Noting that government cannot provide employment for all, the chairman said individuals and organisations must complement government’s efforts in providing job opportunities for Nigerians.

He said for the country to grow, the citizens must be self-employed and self-reliance.

An excited beneficiary, Hannah Kudirat Ashimiyu, said she benefited immensely from the training.

She said: “ I intend to spring into action immediately we the finish training. I don’t want to depend on salary. “

Ashimiyu however advised Nigerians to stop depend on anyone, saying they need to challenges themselves and rise to their full potentials.

The programme was supported by Amuwo Odofin Local Government and Ogbaru Women Association.