No fewer than 103 spouses of Nigerian Army personnel have completed a four-day skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programme organised by the 176 Guards Battalion in Abuja, marking a renewed push by the military to deepen family support and strengthen troop morale.
The training, held within the battalion’s barracks, exposed participants to a range of income-generating skills including paint and yoghurt production, granola and parfait preparation, as well as scented-candle making. It also featured sessions on business development and product branding—areas aimed at helping beneficiaries translate their skills into sustainable ventures.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Odunola Olawuyi, said the initiative reflects the Nigerian Army’s widening focus on welfare as a key component of operational effectiveness.
Commanding Officer of the battalion, Lt. Col. Oladimeji Ajongbo, emphasised that empowering military families remains essential to maintaining a stable and motivated fighting force.
“The welfare of our troops is crucial and sacrosanct to ensure operational effectiveness. It extends to the well-being, stability and growth of their families,” he said.
“When personnel spouses are empowered, trained and equipped with productive skills, the entire military community becomes stronger.”
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During the programme, two locally branded products — “Hawk Yoghurt” and “Hawk Paints” — were formally unveiled, showcasing the practical output of the hands-on sessions. Participants also engaged in screeding and painting exercises, completing the repainting of two buildings in the barracks using the newly produced Hawk Paints.
All trainees received starter kits and certificates to support the launch of their small businesses. In an added boost, five beneficiaries were presented with Corporate Affairs Commission business registration certificates by Mrs Opeyemi Ajongbo, enabling them to begin operations with legal backing.
The Nigerian Army has, in recent years, stepped up investments in family-oriented welfare initiatives, including skills development, barracks renovation and educational support. Officials say such programmes are designed to build resilience within military families and ultimately enhance the readiness and performance of personnel serving across the country.