By Emmanuel Agbo, Abakaliki.
The wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Mrs. Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, has commended the Senior Special Assistant to President on Community Engagement, South-East, Chioma Nweze, for initiating a skills acquisition and empowerment programme for youths across the South-East geopolitical zone.
Mrs. Nwifuru gave the commendation during the graduation and empowerment ceremony for participants of the Skill-Up South-East programme held at the Christian Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the event, the governor's wife described the initiative as a significant contribution to youth development and economic empowerment in the region.
She noted that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places priority on youth and women empowerment.
According to her, the initiative demonstrates how purposeful leadership can equip young people with relevant skills and resources needed to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Mrs. Nwifuru urged beneficiaries of the programme to make productive use of the training, equipment and financial support provided to them to improve their livelihoods and create employment opportunities for others.
She expressed confidence that the participants would become successful entrepreneurs, employers of labour and agents of positive change in their respective communities.
The governor's wife also applauded the Federal Government for extending the empowerment initiative to the South-East, particularly Ebonyi State, describing it as a clear demonstration of the administration's commitment to inclusive development.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, South-East, Barr. Nweze, said the programme was designed to equip youths in the region with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to enhance their economic prospects.
She said the initiative forms part of efforts by the administration of President Tinubu to reduce unemployment, promote innovation and support grassroots development across the country.
The event featured the presentation of starter packs and financial grants to beneficiaries who completed the training.
Among dignitaries present at the ceremony was the wife of the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Mrs. Florence Odunwa, alongside other top government officials and stakeholders.
