The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, has empowered women in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State, with 20 motorcycles to boost their economic activities and promote self-reliance.
The empowerment was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba.
According to the statement, the motorcycles were donated by the GOC, who is also the Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as part of efforts to enhance the welfare of families of military personnel in the cantonment.
It stated that the motorcycles were handed over to the Magajiya of Giginya Cantonment at the NAOWA Leisure Park.
The statement said the initiative formed part of the Barracks Women Empowerment Scheme and reflected the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families.
It added that the motorcycles were expected to support women engaged in petty trading by improving their mobility, access to markets and ability to expand their small businesses within and outside the cantonment.
The statement further noted that the initiative aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s directive to improve the morale and wellbeing of troops and their dependents through sustainable empowerment programmes.
It also said the GOC commended the Magajiya and other women leaders for their support to troops and their role in maintaining peace and harmony within the barracks.
Receiving the motorcycles on behalf of the beneficiaries, the statement said the Magajiya of Giginya Cantonment, Hajiya Amina Adamu, expressed gratitude to the Army leadership and assured that the motorcycles would be distributed equitably and properly maintained.
The statement added that the event was attended by formation commanders, senior officers, the Chairperson of the 8 Division Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, members of the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association and families of military personnel.
It stated that the ceremony ended with a symbolic handover of keys, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.
