The Secure Woman Academy and Forum (SWAF) is urging women, particularly housewives, to embrace vocational training as a path to financial independence and national development.
Speaking in Lagos, the founder of SWAF, Mrs. Bridget William, emphasized the importance of equipping women with practical skills that go beyond traditional domestic roles. She noted that the current economic realities demand active participation from all members of society, including full-time homemakers.
SWAF, established in 2021, offers free training in skills such as catering, tailoring, hairdressing, gele tying and makeup, event planning, soap and disinfectant production, among others. The academy also provides starter packs to graduates, helping them transition smoothly into entrepreneurship or paid work.
“Many women still lack access to skill training and financial literacy, which limits their ability to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities,” William explained. “We focus on sustainable empowerment through mentorship, economic education, and practical skill development.”
According to her, the academy serves as a bridge for illiterate and semi-literate women who are often left out of formal economic structures. Through vocational training and personal development modules, SWAF aims to instill self-confidence and equip women with tools to thrive.
Williams also acknowledged societal challenges, noting that some women drop out of the programme due to lack of support from their spouses. However, she stressed the importance of community backing and practical engagement in overcoming such obstacles.
Graduates of the programme are already making strides. Mrs. Christiana Ogbe-Ochi, now a successful caterer, said she started her snack business from home after completing SWAF’s training. Another graduate, Mirabel Nnaji, used financial support from the academy to launch her own pastry and household goods venture, later returning as a volunteer instructor.
Similarly, Miss Favour Edafe used the 2023 ASUU strike period to complete a tailoring course at SWAF. By the time academic activities resumed, she was already confident in her sewing abilities and had begun applying her skills.
Looking ahead, Williams said the academy’s goal is to expand across Nigeria’s 36 states, but to do so, it needs increased funding and a permanent facility equipped for sustained training.
“There’s a real opportunity here to transform lives, one woman at a time,” she said. “With the right support, we can empower more women to rise, lead, and contribute meaningfully to national growth.”
