As part of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebrations, the Helpline Social Support Initiative has commissioned a Women’s Cluster Processing Centre and Skills Acquisition Centre in Barongoni Community, Bwari, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The centre, officially named ‘Garri Plaza’, was inaugurated over the weekend as part of the NGO’s commitment to empowering women through skills development and economic independence.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, Founder and President of Helpline Social Support Initiative, emphasized that the project is one of several similar centres planned across the six area councils of the FCT. She highlighted that the initiative aims to equip women with essential skills in agricultural processing, entrepreneurship, and self-sufficiency.
“We believe that economic empowerment is key to breaking the cycle of poverty among women. With this centre, we are providing a platform for women to gain practical skills and generate income to support their families,” Dr. Ahmadu stated.
Community leaders and stakeholders present at the commissioning lauded the initiative, describing it as a transformational project that would enhance the livelihoods of women in Barongoni and beyond.
The Garri Plaza centre will focus on cassava processing, a key agricultural activity in the region, enabling women to produce, package, and market garri—a staple food in Nigerian households. The centre will also provide training in other vocational skills, further expanding economic opportunities for women.
The commissioning of the centre aligns with the theme of International Women’s Day 2025, which advocates for gender equality and economic empowerment of women.
With initiatives like this, the Helpline Social Support Initiative continues to champion the cause of women’s empowerment, ensuring that more women in rural communities have access to opportunities for growth and financial independence.
