The Headquarters Nigerian Army Band Corps has organised a three-day Skills Acquisition training for members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ and Soldiers Wives Association (NAOWA/NASWA), aimed at equipping participants with practical skills, promoting self-reliance and enhancing their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the economic well-being of their families.
The programme, held at Bola Tinubu Hall Abalti Barracks, Ojuelegba from 19 – 21 Aug 2026, brought together wives of Nigerian Army officers and personnel to acquire knowledge and practical skills in areas including Ankara and leather works, Soap making, Makeup and Gèlè tying.
Declaring the training programme open, the Acting Director, Army Band Lieutenant Colonel Michael Toriola, stated that the initiative was part of the Corps’ commitment to supporting the welfare and development of families within the military community. He noted that skills acquisition remains an important avenue for empowering women to become economically productive, self-reliant and resilient.
He further encouraged participants to take the training seriously and utilise the knowledge gained to establish small-scale businesses and other legitimate ventures. He emphasised that the objective was not only to acquire vocational skills but also to develop an entrepreneurial mindset capable of transforming skills into sustainable sources of income. He also promised to deliver starter packs to over 120 women in attendance.
The programme featured practical demonstrations, interactive sessions and entrepreneurship guidance designed to provide participants with both technical knowledge and the confidence required to apply their newly acquired skills. The initiative is consistent with the broader empowerment objectives of NAOWA/NASWA, which places emphasis on education, vocational training, women empowerment and improved welfare for military families.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, the NAOWA Secretary Band chapter expressed appreciation to the Headquarters Nigerian Army Band Corps for organising the seminar. She noted that the training would provide participants with valuable skills that could be developed into income-generating ventures and contribute to improved family livelihoods.
The initiative further demonstrates the commitment of the Headquarters Nigerian Army Band Corps to human capital development, welfare enhancement and the empowerment of military families, while strengthening the spirit of unity, service and self-reliance within the Nigerian Army community in line with the Chief of Army Staff Command Philosophy.
