The Refiners Place Ministries (TRPM) has taken a bold step towards tackling unemployment and fostering self-reliance as it successfully concluded its Batch A Skill Acquisition Programme, training 78 Nigerians in a wide range of entrepreneurial skills.
The two-week programme, held between August 18–22 and 25–29, 2025, featured intensive seminars and workshops in catfish production, fashion design, cake and pastries, make-up artistry, gele tying, and small chops preparation.
A breakdown of participants showed that 16 trained in catfish farming, 29 in baking and pastries, 10 in fashion design, 6 in head-tie craft, and 17 in make-up/gele tying — all drawn from different walks of life, but united by a common goal: empowerment.
In his valedictory remarks, Pastor Yemi Asogbon, President of the TRPM Skill Acquisition Programme, described the training as a “remarkable step forward in our journey of empowerment.” He noted that the programme was designed not just to transfer skills, but to ignite creativity, innovation, and a sense of purpose.
“We have seen progress in these two weeks. Each session built on the last, and participants are now equipped to create opportunities for themselves and others,” Pastor Asogbon said.
The facilitators, who brought professional experience and passion to the classroom, included Mrs. Ijilusi Oluwatosin Temitayo (fashion design), Mrs. Osho Abimbola (cake and pastries), Mrs. Kuku Opeyemi (make-up/gele), and Mr. Ajile Tokunbo (fish farming).
For many of the participants, the training was nothing short of life-changing.
Participant in the fashion stream, Abai ENIOLA, who became the best student in Fashion Design, expressed excitement about starting her own business.
“I can now sew simple dresses and make adjustments on my own. This is just the beginning of a bigger journey for me,” she said.
Similarly, Mrs Oluwaseyi Esan , who took part in the catfish farming class, described the programme as an eye-opener.
“With the knowledge I have gained, I can set up my own fish pond and even train others. I am grateful to TRPM for this opportunity,” She said.
The training was also impactful for participants in Make up/Gele.
“I never thought I could learn so much in such a short time. Now, I can style a full bridal look confidently. This has given me hope for the future,” said Teniola, a participant in the fashion stream and best graduating student in Make up.
The Most Punctual Student Award was presented to Mrs. Mary Martins in the Make-up Class, Ekanem Divine in the Cake and Pastry Class, Rose Amarachi in the Fashion Class, and Abai Laurene in the Fishing Class.
Meanwhile, Eniola Abai, Teniola, Ojaowo Esther, and Odumuyiwa Olusegun emerged as the Best Graduating Students in their respective classes.
In addition, Jayeaba Kikelomo, Thompson Adebukola, Adebayo Inioluwa, Oyekan Paul, Ojaowo Esther, and Oyinkansola Olatunde each received special gifts from their facilitators in recognition of their outstanding performance.
Looking ahead, TRPM says the Batch A training is only the first phase of a larger vision. More Nigerians are expected to benefit from subsequent batches in 2025, with the ministry’s leadership affirming its commitment to raising self-reliant individuals who can contribute positively to society.
“When you empower one person with a skill, you empower a family and, by extension, a community,” Pastor Asogbon emphasized.
With 78 newly trained participants already testifying to the impact, TRPM’s initiative is fast becoming a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking practical solutions to unemployment and poverty.
