BY NEWS DESK.

Years of insurgency in Borno State have left countless women widowed, displaced, and vulnerable in Borno State.

Women were among the most vulnerable groups hit by the activities of Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State and the North East region. The devastating impact of the insurgency has disrupted lives, leaving women without access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and education.

However, the Borno State Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation has offered a lifeline through the Second Chance Girls and Women Skill Acquisition Centre.

On Monday at Garannam Bolori 2, Maiduguri, the centre celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of 162 women.

'A new chapter has begun for these women, and we are proud to have played a part in their journey,' Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation said.

The ceremony was filled with a sense of hope and accomplishment, featuring cultural displays and heartfelt testimonials that highlighted the transformative impact of this initiative.

Engr. Wakilbe shared the program's history, which dates back to the late 1970s as a North Nigerian program established by the Goni administration to address the high number of girls dropping out of school.

The 162 graduates received training in various crafts to empower them to establish their businesses and contribute to their communities.

25 graduates were trained in catering, 16 acquired skills in computer technology, 9 graduates mastered embroidery, 13 learned knitting, and 12 were trained in cosmetology.

Other areas of training included painting, with 9 graduates, tailoring, with 39 graduates, throw pillow design, with 32 graduates, and salon services, with 7 graduates.

'We ensure that beneficiaries not only acquire skills but also learn how to sustain and grow them for long-term independence,' Haj. Falmata Umar Lawan, representing the ministry of women affairs.

Start-up kits were distributed to the graduates, further empowering them to establish their businesses.

The kits included necessary equipment and materials to help the women start their own businesses.

The graduates' stories are a testament to the program's impact. Habiba Jibrin, a mother of eight, lost her husband to Boko Haram violence.

Through the program, she acquired salon skills and can now feed her children and regain her dignity.

'This program has been a turning point for me. I can now feed my children and regain my dignity,' Habiba said.

Rabi Yusuf, a young woman from Bolori, learned computer skills and has opened up new opportunities for herself.

'I am grateful for this opportunity. I can now pursue my dreams and create a better future for myself,' Rabi said.

Bussam Bukar Ali, a widow with four children, was introduced to the program by her community leader and can now provide for her children through her knitting skills.

'I was struggling to provide for my children, but now I can give them a better life,' Bussam said.