Caritas Nigeria has empowered 208 trainees in Badagry, Lagos. The handover of startup kits took place on Thursday. It marked the next step after five months of training. As a result, new businesses can begin with confidence and purpose.
The programme theme was Building Sustainable Livelihoods for Vibrant Communities. It seeks to reduce poverty and grow local enterprise. Therefore, participants learned skills that create income and dignity. Communities, in turn, gain services and jobs.
Skills That Match Passion
Training covered many trades. Hairdressing, tailoring, catering and auto mechanics were included. Bead making, shoe and bag design were also taught. Carpentry, furniture making and phone repair featured as well. In addition, trainees learned plumbing, aluminium fabrication and soap making. Electrical works and make up artistry rounded out the list. Crucially, each person chose a skill they love. That choice supports drive, focus and long term success.
Support That Reaches Beyond Badagry
Earlier in the week, 207 trainees graduated in Ekiti. Altogether, the South West now counts 415 beneficiaries. This growth shows consistent planning and scale. Moreover, the programme welcomes the poor and vulnerable. It serves people without regard to tribe, religion or politics.
Partners Who Back The Mission
The Conrad Hilton Foundation supported the effort. Caritas Nigeria and the Sisters of Charity delivered the work. This alliance blends funding, expertise and community trust. Consequently, impact reaches people who need it most.
Leaders Call For Discipline And Service
Traditional and civic leaders attended the event. So did clergy and local stakeholders. The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos sent a representative, Rev Fr Anibuike George. He urged graduates to value small beginnings. He asked them to learn daily and act with discipline. He also encouraged fair pricing and excellent service. In blessing, leaders said, go forth and prosper.
Faith In Action From The Church
Rev Fr Michael Banjo addressed youth unemployment. He noted the urgency across the country. According to him, the Church must act with purpose. Caritas remains a vehicle that turns faith into service. Practical training shows that commitment.
Safeguards For Long Term Impact
Rev Fr Peter Babangida Audu set clear expectations. Beneficiaries should start and sustain real businesses. They should apply the managerial skills learned. They should also train others as they grow. Furthermore, he warned against selling the kits. The tools must remain in productive use.
Stories Of Change On The Ground
Mr Hunye Suru Joseph trained as an auto mechanic. He pledged to teach others at no cost. In doing so, he hopes to lift young people off the streets. His gratitude echoed through the room. It also captured the heart of the programme.
Why This Programme Matters
Skills reduce dependence and expand choice. They improve household income and stability. As businesses grow, communities gain resilience. Therefore, this effort does more than launch shops. It builds confidence, agency and hope.
About Caritas Nigeria
Caritas Nigeria works to strengthen families and livelihoods. It partners with donors and communities nationwide. Through training and tools, it creates practical change. The focus remains clear. Leave no one behind.
