Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) is set to train 150 wives of officers, airmen and dependants of fallen NAF personnel in different skills and vocational programme.

Speaking during the inauguration of the programme on Thursday in Abuja, NAFOWA president and wife of the Chief of Air Staff, Mrs Rakiya Abubakar said the programme will help beneficiaries navigate life’s challenges and contribute to the economy.

Abubakar said the beneficiaries would be trained in new skills with a view to unlocking opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and learn new vocations.

She said that skills acquisition remained a significant component, playing a vital role in the socioeconomic growth of any society.

According to her, it equips individuals with confidence and security of livelihood, reduces dependency, and, above all, alleviates poverty and social inequality.

“Today, in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, NAFOWA will teach, enhance, and impart new skills, ideas, and vocation to 150 members of NAFOWA, AWA and dependent of the NAF fallen heroes.

“This initiative stems from our association’s desire to impact positively and promote the well-being of the beneficiaries.

“It is pertinent to note that this skills acquisition is not limited to technical skills alone.

“Participants will also learn essential life skills such as communications and time management.

“Furthermore, they will be taught how to market their finished products, including export strategies.

“We believe these skills will help our beneficiaries navigate life’s challenges, build meaningful relationships, and contribute positively to societal growth,” she said.

NAFOWA president urged the beneficiaries to embrace the experience with enthusiasm, commitment, and utmost dedication.

She expressed optimism that the trainees would take full advantage of the opportunity to enhance their socio-economic and personal’ wellbeing.

According to her, the beneficiaries will be invited to future Skills acquisition program to share their expertise and what they have learned with others.

Earlier, the Chairperson, NAF@60 Planning Committee for NAFOWA, Mrs Ngozi Aneke, said the initiative was designed to fosters their commitment to empowering and uplifting the women in the NAF community.

Aneke said it was the beginning of a journey towards self reliance, empowerment and prosperity, adding that the association also recognised the immense potential and talents that reside within the participants of the programme.

“Today we embark on a path that would unlock these talents, nurture them, and transform them into very tangible skills that will not only benefit our individuals, but also contribute to the growth and development of society.

“We all know that NAFOWA has always been at the forefront of community service and support, embodying the spirit of compassion, resilience and dedication.

“With the launch of our skills acquisition program, we reaffirm our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our members and the communities we serve,” she said.

One of the resource persons, Mrs Bridget Okpokoro, an Agricultural Consultant, said agriculture was the biggest and most lucrative industry in the world today considering the importance of food to mankind.

She said the training would benefit not only the trainees but their immediate families and the society at large.

A beneficiary, Dr Modupe Ogunsina, thanked NAFOWA for the initiative, saying she developed interest in urban farming to be able to grow and eat quality food.

She said the quality of food intake usually had impact on the quality of health and life.

Another beneficiary, Mrs Lovette Ebiowe, said her participation in the programme would help her to be able to have understanding on making healthy meal for her family.

She said the knowledge to be acquired would be impactful not just for her but for others