by  Momodu Favour

In a bid to strengthen grassroots engagement and promote inclusive development, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG) has organised a sensitisation and empowerment programme for members of the Military and Paramilitary Wives, Abuja State Chapter.

The event, which took place at the NTA Arena, Area 11, Garki, brought together women from across military and paramilitary formations in the Federal Capital Territory for a day of training, registration, and empowerment activities.

The programme also featured registration exercise and the introduction of the BAT Home-Cell structure, with forms distributed to participants to deepen grassroots mobilisation.

The sensitisation was designed to properly orient members on the values, structure, and code of conduct of the BAT Ideological Movement, while also familiarising participants with the group’s operational handbook.

Speaking at the event, the Convener of BAT-IG, Comrade Bamidele Atoyebi, emphasised that the initiative goes beyond material empowerment, focusing instead on equipping women with knowledge, networks, and practical tools for long-term growth.

According to him, the programme was strategically organised to coincide with activities marking Women’s Month, reinforcing the group’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in leadership and governance.

“The 35% affirmative action for women is not a suggestion. It is not a favor. It is not a negotiation point. It is a necessity for balanced governance. And I am proud to say this today, the process to institutionalise 35% women employment across all government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies is already ongoing. This is not a call for action. This is action in motion. We are actively working with empowered women across sectors,” he said.

“We are not just here to give out food items or tokens. What we are doing is more important we are teaching them how to fish, not just giving them fish,” Atoyebi said.

He highlighted the importance of information and access, noting that many women already possess valuable contacts and opportunities but lack the knowledge to effectively utilise them.

“Contact and information are very powerful. Many women have connections that can transform their lives, their families, and even their communities. What they need is guidance on how to use these opportunities strategically,” he added.

Atoyebi further encouraged participants to take advantage of political and social platforms to build meaningful relationships and position themselves for leadership roles, appointments, and community development initiatives.

He stressed that women can serve as facilitators of government intervention projects by identifying needs within their communities and engaging relevant authorities.

“This governance is about all of us. When you see gaps in your community schools, healthcare, infrastructure you should speak up. We are here to guide you on how to channel those concerns and follow through effectively,” he said.

Also speaking, the National Women Leader of the Military and Paramilitary Group, Mrs. Gloria Luka, noted that the programme was inspired by a desire to uplift women and improve their socio-economic conditions.

“All we stand for is to help the masses, to put smiles on people’s faces, and to restore hope. We are also focused on supporting children’s education, providing free medical outreach, and empowering women to become self-reliant,” she said.

Luka explained that the empowerment initiative included the distribution of essential food items such as rice and yam, alongside other support packages aimed at easing the economic burden on families.

Addressing the impact on vulnerable groups, particularly widows, she noted that empowering women at the household level would have a ripple effect on families and communities.

“By empowering women, we are reducing poverty in families. What we are doing is not just about immediate relief it is about long-term impact that will help them stand on their own and support their children,” she added.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Treasure Emenike, expressed appreciation for the programme, describing it as impactful and timely. She noted that the training sessions had helped improve her skills and would positively influence her business and personal development.

“This programme has really helped me. It has boosted my confidence and given me ideas on how to grow my business and better support my family,” she said.

The atmosphere at the event was lively, with participants visibly excited, dancing and celebrating the initiative. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn, connect, and benefit from the empowerment packages.

Organisers reiterated that the BAT Home-Cell structure introduced during the programme would serve as a platform for continuous engagement, advocacy, and community-based development.

The initiative underscores BAT-IG’s broader mission to build a network of informed and empowered citizens, particularly women, who can actively contribute to governance, community development, and national progress.