2nd Chance: 274 women, girls graduate from Borno Training Centre in Bama
Two hundred and seventy-four women and girls have successfully graduated from the Zainab Gimba Second Chance Skills Acquisition School and the Vocational Training Centre in Bama.
The milestone comes just a day after another 162 graduates were celebrated in Maiduguri.
The initiative, held at the Zainab Gimba Second Chance Skills Acquisition School, provides start-up packages from the International Migration Organisation (IMO), Dignity Kits and cash support from the Borno State Government.
It aims to empower women, girls, and youths who missed out on formal education, fostering economic growth and self-reliance.
Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, the state’s Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, highlighted, “The ‘Second Chance’ program will continue to grow, with plans to replicate the initiative in Biu and engage more artisans by 2025,” Wakilbe stated.
The 274 graduates underwent extensive training across various vocational fields. Of these, 160 completed comprehensive vocational training, while the remaining participants gained critical skills in diverse trades.
Each graduate received start-up packages, dignity kits, and N50,000 in cash to launch their businesses, igniting hope and gratitude among the beneficiaries.
Rep. Zainab Gimba (APC-Borno) supported the initiative with a N1 million donation.
Gimba, who represents Bama, Ngala, and Kala-Balge Federal Constituency, at the National Assembly praised the program, emphasising that “empowering women with skills is vital to breaking stereotypes and achieving economic independence.”
She also commended Wakilbe for his unwavering dedication, which she noted has left a significant mark on the lives of the graduates.
The event featured goodwill messages from local leaders, including representatives of the local council chairman and the Shehu of Bama.
Stakeholders encouraged the graduates to utilise the resources provided to foster economic growth and ensure sustainability.
To celebrate the occasion, graduates performed a cultural dance, symbolising a new beginning as they step forward into entrepreneurship and brighter futures.
The event was honored by the presence of several distinguished guests, including Aji Kolo Aji Gujja (Empire), Hon. Abba Jato Mai Jama’, Hon. Abubakar Tijjani, the Special Adviser on Education, Ali Makinta Jere SA SUBEB, Haj Falmata Umar, the representative for the Commissioner of Women Affairs, and Maryam Gimba, Director of the Multi Aid Charity Initiative.
