To mark the 2025 International Widows Day, the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has graduated 300 rural widows and vulnerable women from a targeted vocational skills training and empowerment program.
The initiative, designed to promote self-reliance among women affected by conflict and displacement, offered hands-on training in the production of everyday household items, alongside business and financial literacy.
Over several weeks, participants learned to make bleach, liquid soap, petroleum jelly, balm, and antiseptics. They also received training in marketing and managing small businesses.
To help them kick-start or expand their ventures, each graduate received a financial grant.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Caroline Dafur, commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s dedication to empowering women, especially widows from IDP camps and remote communities.
“This initiative won’t be a one-time effort. We will continue to follow up with mentorship, monitoring, and phased support to ensure sustainability,” she said.
Plateau State First Lady, who was the special guest, praised the graduates and urged them to make the most of their training.
“Congratulations to our resilient women. May this mark the beginning of your journey to leadership and success. Go out and inspire for your children, your community, and yourselves,” she said.
The Ministry says the empowerment program is part of a long-term strategy to improve women’s economic resilience and inclusion. More phases are expected, with future support based on business growth and impact.