Anambra’s First Lady Empowers 700, Champions Human Capital Development
The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has empowered over 700 individuals with working tools and seed capital following their successful completion of various skill acquisition programmes in Ojoto, Idemili South Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event held at the Idemili South Local Government Headquarters, Dr. Soludo emphasized the need for active stakeholder collaboration in addressing critical issues such as unemployment and the development of human capital within the state.
Dr. Soludo, who is also the founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, commended the Chairman of the Local Government Area, Mrs. Amaka Obi, for organizing the empowerment programme.
She noted that, 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.
While acknowledging the vital role of government in supporting its citizens, Dr. Soludo pointed out that governmental efforts are often constrained by various factors, making it essential for stakeholders to step in and support key developmental initiatives.
She praised the Mayor of Idemili South for prioritizing human capital development, stating that the empowerment of 700 people would have a multiplier effect on household incomes and contribute significantly to the economic growth of Anambra State.
Highlighting the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment, she referenced the ongoing “One Youth, Two Skills” initiative under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, which has already trained and empowered thousands of young people. She also revealed that her NGO is now preparing to train and empower women in various marketable skills.
Earlier in her address, Mrs. 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, with the overarching goal of combating poverty, reducing dependency, and fostering productivity.
The Anambra State 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.
Other notable attendees from the local government area included the member representing Idemili South in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Ebuka Igwe; the Commissioner for Tourism and Entertainment, Comrade Don Onyenji; the Executive Chairman of the Anambra State Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Professor Nkechi Ikediugwu; and the Executive Chairperson of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Dr. Vera Nwadinobi.
They all commended Mrs. Obi for her visionary leadership and her commitment to creating a sustainable future for the people.
The 700 empowered individuals were trained in various trades, including sewing, hairdressing, confectionery, and traditional gele tying.
