By Sabiu Abdullahi
Kikelomo Adewale Adeniyi, the President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), has outlined a bold vision aimed at empowering 100,000 women and combating drug abuse in Nigeria.
Speaking at the relaunch of COWA in Abuja on Thursday, February 15, 2024, Mrs.
Kikelomo Adeniyi underscored the association’s determination to support the Federal Government’s efforts in empowering women, addressing drug addiction, and fostering job creation.
The event, attended by members, stakeholders, government officials, business leaders, and diplomats, served as a platform to reaffirm COWA’s commitment to empowering women and children while launching an intensive campaign against drug abuse.
Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi sought the support of Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Bola Tinubu, to enhance women’s well-being and empowerment across the nation.
She also expressed alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ initiative, identifying it as a catalyst for COWA’s primary projects.
Highlighting concrete initiatives, Mrs. Adeniyi announced the launch of a pilot programme to empower 1,200 women, with plans to extend support to over 100,000 women by the end of 2024.
Additionally, she revealed plans to establish a state-of-the-art Skills Acquisition Center in Abuja, providing vocational training and retraining for COWA members.
Furthermore, Mrs. Adeniyi stated COWA’s commitment to providing food and humanitarian aid to 100,000 disadvantaged individuals nationwide by the year’s end.
The relaunch ceremony also served as a fundraising platform, aiming to garner support from corporate entities and individuals to implement COWA’s programs effectively.
Mrs. Adeniyi outlined plans to establish Nursery, Primary, and Secondary Schools in border communities and urban areas, providing affordable education to the children of Customs officers.
In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, lauded the progress of COWA and commended Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi and her team for their dedication.
He highlighted the inclusion of women in crucial positions within the Nigeria Customs Service as a significant achievement in achieving gender balance.
CG Adeniyi reiterated the NCS’s commitment to supporting COWA’s initiatives, including building schools, assisting widows, and conducting medical outreach programs in border communities.
He affirmed the NCS’s unwavering support for COWA’s revival and relaunch, expressing confidence in the association’s positive impact on the organization and the community at large.