President Goodluck Jonathan has commended the landmark achievements of Sandra Aguebor, founder, Lady Mechanics Initiative (LMI), at an event to mark the 10th anniversary of the initiative that has trained over 700 lady auto mechanics across the country, as Oando Marketing plc, sponsor of the event, restates its commitment to the empowerment of Nigerian girls and women.
Jonathan, who was represented at the event in Lagos by Zainab Maina, minister for women affairs and social development, commended the hard work, dedication of Aguebor, whose profile as Nigeria’s first lady auto mechanic had brought much commendation from across the world.
Governor Babatunde Fashola, represented by Olusola Salako-Oworu, commissioner for commerce and industry, praised the “moving spirit” of Sandra Aguebor, for her vision to fight gender restriction, which has inspired not just girls and women but many Nigerians.
Speaking with the media on the sidelines at the event, Yomi Awobokun,CEO, Oando Marketing plc, commended the founder, chairman and staff of the Lady Mechanic Initiative (LMI), stating that unlike many things that are celebrated in our society but which do not contribute positively to the lives of Nigerians, the Lady Mechanics actually does contribute to the lives of Nigerian women in many ways.
“There are many things being celebrated in the Nigerian society which do not change the fabric of the society; this does. It allows women to contribute to the development of the society. It also empowers women who have nothing else to do but to resort to vices, to acquire skills that will make them useful.
“The initiative picks them off the streets and equips them with skills so that they can take care of themselves so that they can one day start their own businesses and contribute to the society,” he said.
He revealed that Oando was also targeting the training of 5,000 auto mechanics with view to helping them update their skills and competencies in order to be able to handle cars and vehicles with the latest technology.
OLUSEGUN ABISOYE
