THE Nigerian Army safeguards Nigeria’s territorial integrity, supports civil authorities, counters security threats, and assists communities during emergencies.
Officers of The Nigerian Army operate in demanding environments and often spend extended periods away from their families.
Wives of fallen officers and lower ranking officers of The Nigerian Army often need practical skills, business support and access to more income opportunities especially when their husbands are away on duty.
In this vein, Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF) with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), partnered with the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 63 brigade Chapter, Delta to organize a recently conducted 6-day Vocational and Entrepreneurship Enhancement Programme in Warri, Delta State.
The programme advances women’s economic empowerment, household resilience and Nigeria’s national priorities.
It aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including No Poverty (SDG 1), Gender Equality (SDG 5), and other relevant SDGs.
It is noteworthy that 101 women received hands-on training in bread making, makeup & gele, leather works, and Adire (tie & dye).
Beyond vocational skill instruction, training sessions covered business planning, record keeping, pricing, customer relations, and access to financial services, strengthening the women’s ability to translate skills into sustainable livelihoods.
VCDF plans to provide 6 months of Business Advisory Services, including mentorship and technical guidance to the women.
These will enable participants to immediately apply their newly acquired skills and begin enterprise activities.
A ceremony held at the end of the training sessions to present tailored business start-up kits to the women.
Dignitaries at the ceremony include The Commanding Officer, The Nigerian Army 3 Battalion, Major A. Haruna; Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Delta State Chapter, Mrs. Eyitoyosi O. Shonibare; and SEEPCO’s representative.
Mrs. Aisha Mustapha, a participant, said: “I am grateful to VCDF for the leatherwork training.
” I have valuable insights to make my business better. I and many of my fellow army wives now have confidence to earn better with skills we have learnt.”
Public Relations Officer, NAOWA Delta State Chapter, Mrs. Essor, said:
“This programme is timely and practical. It strengthens household income and supports families within the military environment through skills and starter kits.”
Mr. Philip Ukemezia, VCDF’s Deputy National Programmes Manager, said:
‘‘VCDF combines structured skills training with practical support to build sustainable household economic resilience.
”In 2026, VCDF has trained over 200 army wives across supported communities in Akwa Ibom and Delta States.’’
VCDF reaffirmed commitment to leveraging SEEPCO’s Corporate Social Responsibility investments and partnering with The Nigerian Army, government agencies, and communities to drive sustainable skills development that support inclusive growth across Nigeria.
Tags: Delta State Sterling Oil VCDF women
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