The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has empowered 100 women in Akwa Ibom State with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and digital marketing skills to enable them to expand their businesses and access online markets.
Speaking during the two-day training programme in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the NDDC Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, Mrs Lyna Okara, said the initiative reflected the Commission’s commitment to empowering women with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the digital economy.
She said the ICT training was designed to equip women with practical digital skills for online business, marketing and networking. The beneficiaries came from different professions and sectors, including tailoring, catering, agriculture, photography, and other businesses.
Okara stated, “We are here to train and graduate 100 women selected from Akwa Ibom State and teach them ICT skills for digital marketing and online businesses. This will help them take their products to the global market, where they can interact, network and connect with potential customers.”
The NDDC Director explained that the Android phones provided to the beneficiaries as starter packs would enable them to create business pages, design flyers and promote their products and services online.
She urged the beneficiaries to share the knowledge acquired during the programme with other women in their communities who did not have the opportunity to participate.
“The resources may not go round to everyone, but those of you who are here today should ensure that others benefit. Let what you have learnt here today cascade to other people who do not have the opportunity to be here,” she said.
Also speaking, the NDDC Director, Akwa Ibom State Office, Mr Evong Evong, explained that the programme was organised to train women to use online platforms effectively to enhance their businesses and improve their access to wider markets.
He expressed confidence that the digital exposure would enable the beneficiaries to expand their customer base, reach global clients and take advantage of new business opportunities available through online platforms.
One of the facilitators, Engr. Yireobong Akpaba, emphasised the importance of establishing a strong online presence for businesses. He walked participants through using online business applications, email addresses, and unique brand identities, among other digital tools.
He also explained the importance of having a domain name and noted that domains had been created for the participants to enable them to commence their businesses online after the training.
An ICT expert Mr. Godwin Sunday, also took the women through practical aspects of ICT and the use of digital tools to improve their businesses.
The participants expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the initiative. In her vote of thanks, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Obonodo Ini Uko, said the women were delighted with the knowledge acquired and the Android phones provided as starter packs.
Another beneficiary, Esther Augustine, a young photographer, commended the NDDC for putting together a programme that empowered women not only with knowledge but also with practical tools to apply what they had learnt
She said the ICT skills acquired during the training would help her restructure her photography business, improve her online presence and reach more customers.
