The Rivers State Government has empowered over 520 women through a three-month skills acquisition and empowerment programme aimed at promoting economic independence and self-reliance across the state.
The training, organised by the Rivers State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with Christ Embassy Convention Grounds Group, Port Harcourt, was held at the Women’s Skills Acquisition Centre within the ministry’s complex.
The programme, which began in January 2026, exposed participants to various vocational skills designed to help them establish and manage small businesses.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ihuoma P. Ray-Boms, expressed appreciation to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his wife, Valerie Fubara, for their continued support for women-focused development initiatives.
She said the programme reflects the ministry’s commitment to improving the welfare and productivity of women across Rivers State, adding that the government remains focused on initiatives that create sustainable livelihoods.
Ray-Boms also acknowledged the contribution of Christ Embassy Convention Grounds Group, commending the facilitators for their role in delivering the training programme.
She assured that the state government would continue to support interventions aimed at improving the economic well-being of women.
Representing the facilitators, Pastor Isaac Mark congratulated the participants for successfully completing the training and commended the ministry for providing a platform for community impact.
He noted that the programme combined vocational training with value-based teachings aimed at encouraging discipline, productivity, and personal growth.
Pastor Mark also announced that beneficiaries would receive starter packs to help them establish their businesses after the training.
Another facilitator, Pastor Earldon Daniel, described the programme as a rewarding experience and appreciated the opportunity to contribute to the development of the participants.
The training covered areas such as tailoring, soap making, shoemaking, perfume production, and catering, alongside business development sessions.
At the end of the programme, starter packs including sewing machines, baking equipment, and pressing irons were distributed to beneficiaries to support their transition into entrepreneurship.
