A transformative leadership training programme has been concluded in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with participants expressing gratitude for the life-changing opportunities it provided.
Supported by the Nasarawa State government and the LEADERSHIP Group, the initiative aimed at lifting two million Nigerians out of poverty has empowered beneficiaries to improve their livelihoods and contribute to poverty reduction efforts across the country.
The training focused on equipping participants with skills in various fields, including leatherworks, ICT, business management, tie and dye, animal feed production and honey processing.
By promoting entrepreneurship, the programme sought to reduce poverty and foster economic independence.
LEADERSHIP’s senior vice chairman and editor-in-chief, Azu Ishiekwene, praised the participants for their dedication and thanked the trainers and supervisors for their efforts in making the programme a success. He also expressed appreciation for the support of Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, despite his inability to attend the event.
“We are proud that you are leaving here happier and better than when you arrived,” Azu stated, emphasising that this was only the beginning.
He urged participants to stay connected through WhatsApp groups created for continuous mentorship and guidance, with the ultimate goal of helping them become millionaires and billionaires.
LEADERSHIP Group’s vice chairman, Mike Opere, highlighted the broader impact of the programme, noting that each participant was expected to return to Nasarawa and train at least four more people.
“With 100 of you here, that means 500 people will be lifted out of poverty,” Opere said, congratulating the participants and referring to them as ambassadors of the programme.
A beneficiary from Akwanga local government area, Abubakar Ruth, expressed gratitude for the skills she gained in leatherworks.
“This leadership training has given me a skill for life. It’s something that will benefit not just me but my family, and something I can teach others,” she sai.
Ruth appealed for support in acquiring equipment to start her business, stating that “learning without the means to practice is a waste of time.”
A businesswoman from Toto local government area, Maryam Abdullrahman, highlighted how the ICT and business management training transformed her business.
“Before, I had to travel from village to village to sell my goods, but now, with the ICT skills I’ve learned, I can conduct my business from the comfort of my home,” she explained. Abdullrahman extended her gratitude to the LEADERSHIP Group and the Nasarawa State government, noting how the training saved her from the costs of other programs.
She encouraged youths to acquire skills rather than waiting for white-collar jobs.
Usman Amira from Guma local government area also shared her positive experience, discussing the practical ICT skills she gained, such as editing pictures and designing invitations and ID cards.
“These skills can benefit me in many ways. We truly appreciate this opportunity and pray that Almighty Allah rewards the organizers,” she said.
The programme concluded with the recognition of the best students in each of the five skill categories. Outstanding participants received cash prizes, and all attendees were awarded certificates, marking the success of the initiative in empowering women and reducing poverty in Nasarawa State.
