BY RITA OYIBOKA
Beneficiaries of the Women Economic Skill Acquisition Programme (WESAP) start-up empowerment programme have lauded the Delta State Government for the initiative, describing it as a game-changer for entrepreneurs.
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, the initiative empowered 220 women and 91 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), who are trained artisans but have yet to establish their businesses.
These beneficiaries recently received start-up resources to begin ventures in diverse fields such as fashion design, catering, hairdressing, leatherwork, industrial production, and ICT.
Speaking with The Pointer, a tailoring beneficiary, Kate Peter, shared her gratitude: “This programme has opened doors for me to establish my own business. It’s a practical solution to unemployment and financial dependency. I thank the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for showing himself as a man of God and the people.”
Endurance Otoibuli, who was empowered in ICT with a starter pack comprising a power generator, printer, and laptop, also expressed appreciation.
Otoibuli, who serves as the Publicity Secretary of the Joint Association for Persons Living with Disabilities, commended the state government’s commitment to inclusivity. “The state government has shown they are inclusive and want everyone to succeed. Empowering 91 PWDs is a testament to their dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable groups,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Emmanuella Omo, lauded Governor Oborevwori, his wife Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and the Women Affairs Commissioner, Hon. Pat Ajudua, for their efforts in advancing economic empowerment for all in Delta State.
In her address, Hon. Pat Ajudua highlighted the meticulous selection of beneficiaries from all three senatorial districts of the state. She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to inclusivity and development:
“This event is a step towards realising the ministry’s mandate of mainstreaming gender and human rights perspectives across all levels, ensuring that our women and vulnerable groups are empowered to guarantee peace and development.
“In line with this mandate, we will continue to roll out programmes and activities that promote the cause of women, children, PWDs, and other vulnerable persons in Delta State,” she said.
The commissioner also thanked the Governor and First Lady, Dcns Tobore Oborevwori for their support and urged stakeholders to back the governor’s MORE Agenda for sustained development.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Hon. Ajudua remarked: “You are now equipped with the tools to reshape your future. Make the most of this opportunity, as your success will inspire future empowerment programmes.”
In his speech, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reminded the beneficiaries of the importance of the initiative. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Misusing these resources will not only undermine the initiative but also deny others the chance to benefit. Use this empowerment to build a brighter future for yourselves and your communities,” he said.
