Fifty graduates of the Igarra Community Learning Centre in Edo State have received vocational tools to launch their businesses following the completion of their training under the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC).
The Acting Executive Secretary of NMEC, Dr. John Edeh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the commission’s spokesperson, Issa Marughu.
According to Edeh, the empowerment programme was organised through a collaboration between NMEC’s Departments of Literacy and Development, and Vocational and Continuing Education.
In addition to the distribution of starter packs and equipment, the event featured the presentation of certificates to trainees who completed courses in fashion design, catering, event planning, hairdressing, and traditional weaving.
Edeh said the initiative aligns with NMEC’s commitment to expanding access to vocational education and equipping Nigerians with practical skills for sustainable livelihoods.
He commended the traditional institution, the Igarra Community Development Initiative, and members of the community for sustaining the learning centre over the years.
The acting executive secretary noted that although NMEC operates 12 community learning centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, the Igarra centre remains the only one currently functioning effectively. He added that the centre now serves beneficiaries across southern Nigeria, extending beyond its host community.
Edeh encouraged interested individuals to enrol in the centre’s programmes and urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the equipment provided. He added that NMEC would monitor the utilisation of the tools to ensure they achieve their intended purpose.
The coordinator of the centre, Mrs. Ahmadu Lamin, expressed appreciation to NMEC and the Igarra community for their continued support, noting that the facility has positively impacted the lives of many young Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Igarra Community Development Initiative, Michael Okara, recalled that the centre was established in 2017 but became inactive before being revived in 2025 through renewed collaboration between NMEC and the community.
Delivering a lecture titled “Skills for Self-Reliance: Empowering Communities Through Vocational Training,” Okara urged the graduates to view their newly acquired skills as lifelong assets capable of guaranteeing financial independence.
“A certificate is good, but a skill is better because a skill cannot be stolen or retrenched,” he said.
Also speaking, the Oshimidase of Igarra, His Royal Highness Otu Baja, commended the Federal Government and NMEC for sustaining the programme. He said the learning centre has created opportunities for youths and women, reduced unemployment, and contributed to the community’s socio-economic development.
He encouraged the graduates to use the equipment to establish viable businesses, create employment opportunities, and transfer their skills to others.
Outstanding trainees received prizes, including sewing machines, industrial ovens, complete hairdressing salon equipment, ring lights, and other tools relevant to their areas of training.
The event also featured practical demonstrations by the graduates, showcasing the skills they acquired during the programme. As a mark of appreciation, trainees from the weaving department presented the Acting Executive Secretary with a handwoven Aso Oke fabric in recognition of NMEC’s support for the centre.
Umm e Habiba, Pakistan.
