The National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) and wife of the Comptroller General of Customs, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, proudly commissioned the Apapa Command Transit Camp and launched a skill empowerment program for its members. The ceremony took place at the command in Lagos on Thursday, marking a significant milestone for the association.
During the event, 20 members and widows who participated in various skill development programs received cash gifts and essential equipment to kickstart their businesses, including sewing machines and pressing irons. Among the beneficiaries, three individuals with outstanding success stories were each awarded N200,000. Ten members who excelled in their training as fashion designers received sewing machines and pressing irons, while four were granted gas cookers along with necessary cooking utensils. Additionally, three participants trained as professional Makeup Artists were equipped with complete makeup kits, ring lights, and other essential tools. Four dedicated officers were also recognized with plaques to motivate them for their exemplary performance.
In her address, Mrs Adeniyi emphasized that the empowerment program is designed to support COWA members in acquiring skills and knowledge for their economic and personal development while fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. She described the event as a significant milestone in the association’s journey, symbolizing its commitment to growth, unity, and empowerment.
“This lodge (transit camp) represents a sanctuary of hope, a beacon of light in the face of adversity. It embodies our unbreakable spirit and serves as a testament to the power of unity,” she stated. “The Skill Empowerment Project is a clarion call to unlock our potential, shatter glass ceilings, and redefine the boundaries of what is possible. We will equip ourselves with skills, knowledge, and confidence to soar to greater heights.”
Mrs Adeniyi urged COWA members to embrace their roles as change agents, empowering themselves and those around them. She encouraged them to be bold and fearless and collaborate to build stronger families and communities. Highlighting COWA’s core values, she stated, “This organization offers a supportive community, empowering programs, and growth opportunities. COWA is a platform for personal growth, collective empowerment, and positive change. Encourage your wives to join and experience the transformative power of unity and support.”
In her welcome address, Funso Olomu, Chairperson of the COWA Apapa Area Command Chapter, underscored the importance of the occasion, noting that it was not only a celebration of the camp’s inauguration but also an acknowledgement of members’ achievements in skill development and self-sufficiency. She highlighted the significance of COWA’s initiatives, stating that they aim to positively impact the home front and society by providing social, economic, and emotional support to members, their families, and the community.
“The COWA Transit Camp stands as a testament to our collective commitment to providing safe, supportive environments for our community members. It embodies our shared vision of a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and excel. However, as we celebrate the empowerment of our skilled members and the distribution of relief items to our widows, let us remember that our efforts reflect our dedication to justice, dignity, and compassion,” Olomu remarked.
She expressed gratitude to the National President, management, staff, COWA executives, and members for their cooperation and support, acknowledging COWA’s critical role as a pillar of support for customs officers and their families.
In his remarks, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Controller of the Apapa Command, commended COWA’s efforts under Mrs. Adeniyi’s leadership. He noted that COWA’s initiatives have significantly impacted the community, bringing joy and relief to those in need. “The activities embarked upon by Kikelomo Adeniyi have left indelible marks, wiped out tears from the faces of the downtrodden, and lifted the hearts of women and children touched by her kindness. The projects commissioned today are a testament to her Midas touch. We assure you of proper utilization and sustained impact,” he stated.
He added that COWA’s initiatives have placed the Nigeria Customs Service on the map of customs organizations where care for one another is paramount. “COWA’s efforts have mobilized support for widows fostered skills acquisitions for entrepreneurship, and upheld moral values and a sense of belonging among us,” he concluded.