Two Catholic priests have taken the pulpit to the streets of Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, by empowering 60 women who recently graduated from a skills acquisition programme, providing them with certificates and cash donations.
The Priests of Jalingo Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Matters, and Very Rev. Fr. Peter Makong Tari, Cathedral Administrator, Our Lady Queen of Peace, in partnership with Chyoby Catering School, “equipped the women with practical catering and entrepreneurial skills aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment.”
Fr. Muke told Advocatus Africa that his fellow priest, “Fr. Tari was a strong supporter of the programme yesterday,” adding that “He presented cash donations worth over 200k to five outstanding graduating students” at the event which took place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Catholic Pastoral Centre Mini Hall, Mile Six, Jalingo.
Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Matters, Taraba State.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Matters also disclosed that “participants were drawn from 6 local government areas,” clarifying, “I hope to continue with central and southern parts of the state soon.”
Providing context about the event, the priest said, “The world is ruled by the media. My yearning is for our political leaders to know that our people do not demand so much from them.”
He detailed that “what began as an opportunity to learn a skill has now become a pathway to a better future,” adding that “the women graduated from the 2026 Skills Acquisition Programme and received starter packs to begin their own businesses.”
“Equipped with practical catering and entrepreneurial skills,” the cleric maintained that “the programme was aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment.”
Some of the beneficiaries.
Fr. Muke lauded the quality of work that the graduates displayed and the dedication of the team that trained them, maintaining that he is impressed by the outcome.
He used the occasion to commend Governor Agbu Kefas for his commitment to the development of Taraba State and called on residents to continue supporting the administration.
Present at the event were clerics from other churches and prominent politicians from the state who, in their separate speeches, lauded the initiative.
Religious leaders and top government functionaries at the ceremony.
The former Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) Chairman of Taraba State, Pastor Ephraim Kwanchi, noted that “the initiative is a valuable investment in the future of women and families across the Northern Zone of the state.”
On his part, YOWICAN Chairman, Dr. Job Julius Saleh, spoke about the positive impact the training is already making, stressing that it is helping to improve the women’s income, living standards, strengthen communities and reduce poverty.
The Member representing Yorro Constituency, Hon. Joseph Kasong, commended the sponsor for complementing government efforts in empowering citizens.
Some beneficiaries being served food during refreshment.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of Karim Lamido Local Government Area, Hon. Ubale, expressed appreciation to the convener for initiating people-oriented programmes while appealing that it should be expanded to other areas across the state.
The Chief Executive Officer of Chyoby Catering School, Mrs. Chioma Abasianya, expressed gratitude to God for the success of the programme and thanked the sponsors for their support.
The excited graduates who expressed gratitude to their sponsors for allowing them to acquire skills that would help them support their families and build sustainable livelihoods pledged to make good use of the training and starter packs provided to them.
The event showcased a vibrant cultural performance by the Mumuye Kona Cultural Troupe, enhancing the celebration with new opportunities, renewed confidence, and brighter futures for beneficiaries and their families.
Editor’s Note: All photos are courtesy of Oscar Romero.
