The Arewa of Offa, Queen Latifah Biola Olanrewaju last Thursday, March 4 empowered no fewer than 30 female youths in a bid to make them self dependent and tackle the questions of poverty and unemployment in the society.
The empowerment programme, which took place at the iconic ODU National Headquarters Hall, Offa, comes after a 3-day free skills acquisition training organised by the Office of the Arewa of Offa (Miss Offa).
In attendance were representatives of the Kwara South Senator, Arch. Lola Ashiru; Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Holdings Limited, Mallam Abdullahi Abdulmajeed who doubled as the Keynote Speaker; among other dignitaries.
Also present on the occasion was Proprietor, Lens Polytechnic, Offa, Mr. Yisa Azeez who served as the Guest Speaker and Lion (Mrs) Peju Salami, Coordinator, Arewa Offa.
Queen Latifah said the initiative was her own little way of offering helping hands to female youths who need empowerment to become self reliant, adding that about 30 beneficiaries will get start up kits for both make up and bead making categories.
She called on governments at all levels to take the issue of youth empowerment seriously, noting that it’s the key to thrive amid the 21st century challenges.
In his goodwill message, Senator representing Kwara South, Arch. Lola Ashiru, ably represented by Mr. Tajudeen Abioye appealed to wealthy individuals to support the government on youth empowerment.
Also speaking, the Keynote Speaker, Mallam Abdullahi Abdulmajeed represented by Chairman, Ajoshe Forum, Mr. Adedoyin Abubakar Abiola lauded Queen Latifah for the project, while charging Offa indigenes to recommit themselves to the ideals of empowerment and self help approach to development.
Meanwhile, the event also saw the colourful decoration of the Miss Offa with a new sash by Coordinator, Arewa Offa, Lion (Mrs) Peju Salami, just as it witnessed award presentation to selected dignitaries.
Queen Latifah thanked every individual and organisation that contributed to the successful turnout of the event, praying God to reward them abundantly as she hopes to do more in the coming years.
