Delta State Empowers 311 Beneficiaries Through Women Skill Acquisition Programme
ASABA/Nigeria: In a determined effort to advance entrepreneurial development and promote economic inclusion, the Delta State Government has distributed start-up packs to 311 beneficiaries of the Women Economic Skill Acquisition Programme (WESAP). The initiative underscores the state’s commitment to equipping its citizens with tools for self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
The beneficiaries included 220 women trained in diverse trades such as fashion design, hairdressing, catering, decoration and event management, and makeup artistry, as well as 91 persons with disabilities trained in ICT, confectioneries, leatherwork, fashion design, and industrial production.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony held in Asaba, Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s resolve to empower citizens to overcome challenges and realise their potential.
“It is evident from the joy and excitement on the faces of our beneficiaries today that this intervention by the state government serves as a much-needed relief and a beacon of hope,” the governor said.
He highlighted the struggles faced by many skilled individuals in accessing capital to actualise their visions, emphasising that the rigorous selection process undertaken by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development ensured deserving candidates were chosen for support.
“Today’s event marks another significant milestone in our administration’s journey to provide opportunities for all, in line with our MORE Agenda. Economic inclusion is the key to social cohesion in any society. When citizens are given opportunities to grow in an enabling environment, they thrive,” Oborevwori added.
The governor noted that over 203,204 Deltans have benefitted from various empowerment programmes this year alone, including 426 artisans, petty traders, and female entrepreneurs. Additionally, 6,000 farmers have received support, including fertiliser distribution across the 25 local government areas.
He also mentioned the focus on agriculture under the Result Area II of the Fadama Food Security of the D-CARES Scheme and the release of ₦1 billion in counterpart funding from the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa Development to empower 2,000 farmers for food production in the state.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Oborevwori urged them to make the most of the resources provided. “Justify the trust the government has placed in you by using these resources wisely. Selling your starter pack or misusing the support is a disservice to yourself, your community, and the vision of this initiative,” he advised.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Hon. Princess Pat Ajudua, described the event as a milestone in ensuring empowerment and inclusivity. She lauded the governor’s unwavering dedication to the socio-economic welfare of Deltans and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to mainstreaming gender and human rights perspectives to guarantee sustainable development.
Goodwill messages from the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, and the Chief Job Creation Officer, Mr. Ifeanyi Egwunyenga, further highlighted the administration’s goal of eradicating poverty. They urged the beneficiaries to resist any temptation to sell their start-up packs, emphasising the importance of utilising the resources to transform their lives.
The event stands as a testament to Delta State’s proactive approach to fostering economic empowerment and inclusivity among its citizens.
