Chinedum Elekwachi
Wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has empowered over 700 individuals with working tools and seed capital in Ojoto, Idemili South Local Government Area.
The beneficiaries have successful completed various skills acquisition programmes.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Soludo emphasized the need for active stakeholder collaboration in addressing critical issues such as unemployment and human capital development within the state.
The Governor’s wife, who founded Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, commended the local government Chairperson, Mrs. Amaka Obi for organizing the empowerment programme.
“In addition to the 700 trained individuals, another 250 petty traders selected from the seven communities within the LGA received financial support to grow their businesses,” she revealed.
The first lady regretted that governmental efforts were often constrained by various factors, making it essential for stakeholders to support key developmental initiatives.
“We thank the LG chairman for prioritizing human capital development.
“The empowerment of 700 people will have a multiplier effect on household incomes and contribute significantly to the economic growth of the State,” she added.
She highlighted the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment, referencing the ongoing “One Youth, Two Skills” initiative under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, which has already trained and empowered thousands of young people.
Dr Soludo also revealed that her NGO is now preparing to train and empower women in various marketable skills.
Towards economic independence
Earlier, the LG Chairperson, Amaka Obi described the empowerment programme as a bold step toward economic self-reliance, social inclusion, and the celebration of resilience, hard work, and opportunity.
She stated that each trainee had been equipped with the necessary tools to launch and sustain their businesses.
According to her, the overarching goal is combating poverty, reducing dependency, and fostering productivity.
Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, assured that the government would further support the beneficiaries with investment education and other incentives to help them establish and maintain their enterprises.
The beneficiaries were trained in various trades, including sewing, hairdressing, confectionery, and traditional gele tying.
