Nigeria, Aug. 26 -- The Nigerian Army has launched a skills acquisition program in Katsina State aimed at empowering 10,000 widows, orphans, and youths to become self-reliant and help reduce insecurity.

The initiative, organized by the 35 Battalion and sponsored by the 17 Brigade, commenced with the training of the first batch of 120 beneficiaries at the barracks in Katsina.

The Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ishaya Ibrahim, said the program would equip beneficiaries with practical skills while promoting economic empowerment.

Ibrahim, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Nehemiah Yakubu, said the initiative would also engage youths productively and reduce their vulnerability to criminal activities and other forms of insecuri...