DEPOWA Celebrates Graduates at Skills Acquisition Centre
By Aysha S. Rabo
In a heartwarming ceremony held on March 13, 2024, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), extended a warm welcome to attendees at the Combined Graduation Ceremony of Batches 14, 15, and 16 of 2023 Trainees of the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre.
Expressing profound gratitude to the Almighty for the opportunity, Mrs. Musa emphasised DEPOWA’s commitment to nurturing young individuals into productive members of society. She proudly presented the latest set of beneficiaries of DEPOWA’s efforts, highlighting the organisation’s dedication to impacting lives positively.
During the ceremony, a total of 102 trainees graduated after undergoing five months of rigorous training in various skills such as Catering Services, Fashion Designing, Hair Making/Makeup, and more. Mrs. Musa outlined the comprehensive support provided to the trainees, including fully funded training regimens, monthly stipends, and essential materials.
The graduating trainees, nominated from various sister-associations under DEPOWA, were carefully selected, with priority given to wives of fallen heroes and vulnerable youths. Mrs. Musa expressed confidence in the trainees’ acquired skills, ensuring their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
Acknowledging the support of well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations, Mrs. Musa expressed gratitude to General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, for his unwavering support. She also thanked Service Chiefs, Principal Staff Officers, and past Presidents of DEPOWA for their contributions.
Special recognition was given to Pharmacist (Mrs) Fatima Salihu and her team for organising the ceremony, as well as Maj CE Num and the staff of DSAC for their coordination and efforts.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Musa encouraged the graduating trainees to utilise their skills responsibly, “I challenge you strive for continuous improvement, and remain steadfast in your pursuit of success. I wish you all the very best in your future endeavours,” she said.
In a separate remark, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, praised the graduates for their hard work and determination. He commended DEPOWA for its commitment to empowering individuals and shaping future leaders, urging the graduates to embrace opportunities and strive for excellence.
The ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism and pride as the graduates prepared to embark on their journey towards a brighter future, equipped with the skills and knowledge acquired at the DEPOWA Skills Acquisition Centre.
DEPOWA Celebrates Graduates at Skills Acquisition Centre