By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
Enugwu-Ukwu Community Development Union (ECDU) Women’s Wing in Lagos has empowered more than 200 women at a fundraising and empowerment programme in Lagos.
The event, which brought together sons and daughters of Enugwu-Ukwu from Abuja, Lagos and Anambra states, focused on equipping women with vocational tools, scholarships and financial support to promote self-reliance and community development.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who was special guest of honour, donated 10 sewing machines and other vocational tools to support the initiative. She stated that the empowerment programme was borne out of the need to support women who are financially constrained but willing to work.
“Many women are eager to work, but they lack the means. Empowerment is about giving people the tools to stand on their own,” she said. “Government cannot do everything, so as communities and individuals, we must step in to fill the gap. The current administration is committed to skills acquisition and labour empowerment to ensure Nigerians can earn a living, even without white-collar jobs.”
President of ECDU Lagos branch, Felicia Agubata, said the funds raised would be directed toward more developmental projects and further empowerment schemes, both in Lagos and in their home community. She encouraged women to be focused, self-confident and supportive in their family lives.
She disclosed that 20 sewing machines were distributed, additional beneficiaries received slots for skill training and the union is funding a scholarship scheme to sponsor indigenous students up to university level. Widows were also among those empowered.
Agubata acknowledged the ongoing challenge of funding but praised the continued support from men in the community. “Our men have never relented in backing our programmes, and we are not stopping here. We are also extending our efforts to the village, ensuring that women there benefit too,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, member representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II, praised the initiative, describing women as the engine room of national development.
“When you train a woman, you train a nation,” he said. “Women are driving the economy in various sectors, from market trading to corporate leadership. Their impact is immeasurable.”
She cited the Igbo apprenticeship model as a proven framework for economic empowerment and human capital development. “Igbo self-help systems like Igba-boi have produced countless successful entrepreneurs. Even Harvard is studying this model.”
Onuakalusi also raised concerns about declining interest in education among boys and called for renewed attention to their development. “While we have promoted girl-child education, we must now encourage our boys. Balance is necessary for the stability of future families.”
The event ended on a celebratory note with awards presented to individuals for their contributions to the community, while women entertained the audience with traditional dances and songs. The men also turned out in full force to support the fundraising and empowerment programme.
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