At M&G Etomi Foundation, our journey of empowerment continues with deep purpose and unwavering commitment. We are proud to announce that our skills acquisition program has now trained over 4,200 individuals—boys, girls, and women—equipping them with practical, income-generating skills that are shaping brighter futures across the Niger Delta.
In partnership with the Wakirike Development Coalition (WDC), we recently marked the graduation of another cohort of trainees in a colorful passing-out ceremony held on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025, in Port Harcourt. It was a celebration of resilience, ambition, and transformation.
Our intensive one-year training programme offers hands-on experience in Fashion & Design, Catering, Graphic Design, Photography, and Health, Safety & Environment (HSE). Each programme is structured to ensure rigorous training, mentorship, and proper certification. Most importantly, our graduates receive start-up kits—tangible tools to help them launch their entrepreneurial journeys with confidence.
In her opening remarks, our Executive Director, Mrs. Ibifama Walaku-Saya, reminded all present of our driving mission:
“We are operating in line with the 2007 UNDP Declaration—to build skills for young persons and empower them to become entrepreneurs.”
Our co-founders, Dr. Mike Etomi and Barr. George Etomi, remain passionate about ensuring young people and women in the Niger Delta gain access to economic opportunities aligned with both local needs and the oil and gas sector.
“We find fulfilment in providing the necessary tools for young men and women to meaningfully fend for themselves—and eventually train others. This is our way of contributing to economic growth through empowerment.”
We were deeply honored to have HRH David Serena-Dokubo Spiff join us at the event. His heartfelt message to the graduands was one of encouragement and responsibility:
“God has blessed you to bless someone too. Treasure what you’ve been taught, and let your certificate remind you that you can make a difference.”
Also in attendance was Barr. Cordelia Eke, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch. She commended the Foundation’s impact, particularly the emphasis on empowering women, and encouraged us to continue this noble path.
Hearing from our beneficiaries is always the highlight of these events.
Glory Sunday Ogolo (Catering) and Nyeduko Caroline (Fashion/Design) shared heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to grow their skills. As Job Bariekoasa Golden (Catering) put it:
“It’s a dream come true for me.”
📸 Want to relive the beautiful moments from the graduation?
View the full photo gallery from the event here: 2025 Graduation Gallery
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to expanding our reach and deepening our impact. To every graduate, we say—go forth, create, empower others, and carry the torch of transformation into your communities.
Together, we are building a future of self-reliance, dignity, and opportunity.
