By Ado Salisu, Kano
In continuation of its push for gender inclusivity, the Alice Wanny Development Foundation (AWDF), in collaboration with the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), has trained women and youths in construction-related skills.
The two-day programme focused on tiling, flooring techniques, safety in construction and entrepreneurship.
Founder of AWDF, Alice Adamuje Owan, said the initiative seeks to break gender stereotypes and empower women beyond traditional trades.
“Most women are trained in tailoring or catering. But the construction industry is growing, and we want women to benefit from it,” she said.
She called for more opportunities for women in the sector through internships, placements, and gender-inclusive policies.
“A woman with skills is not just an asset to her family but to the nation,” Owan added.
The event also marked the International Day of the Girl Child and the launch of Owan’s book, From Gloominess to Strength.
The book highlights the struggles and resilience of girls facing educational and gender-based challenges.
“This book is not just a memoir. It is a call to action,” she said, urging communities to invest in girls’ education, adding that “when a girl rises, a nation rises.”
NBRRI’s Director of Consultancy and Extension Services, Mr. Daniel Makava, said the training was part of a broader national effort to reduce unemployment and boost gender equity in construction.
“We are equipping women and young people with practical skills to access jobs and start businesses,” Makava said.
“Empowering women in construction is no longer an option—it is a necessity for inclusive growth.”
He said NBRRI would continue to partner with stakeholders to promote technical competence and safety in the sector.
The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) also lent its voice to the call for gender inclusion, professionalism, and safety in real estate development.
Speaking at the event, Hajiya Binta Ibrahim, Chairperson, REDAN National Women’s Committee, stressed the importance of ethics and competence in the housing sector.
“Professionalism must be the foundation of every real estate activity. It builds trust and attracts partnerships,” she said.
She said safety must go beyond policy to become an everyday practice.“A safe site is a productive site. Safety protects lives, ensures quality, and reduces losses,” she added.
Ibrahim urged more women to explore roles in construction and property development.
“Inclusion brings creativity, diligence, and accountability, all of which drive better outcomes,” she said.
She noted that women still face limited access to land, finance, and leadership roles.“REDAN is pushing for inclusive financing and mortgage models tailored for women,” Ibrahim said.
She pledged REDAN’s continued support for mentoring and partnerships that promote women’s participation.
She pledged REDAN’s continued support for mentoring and partnerships that promote women’s participation.
Also speaking, Safety Expert Labaran Ahman led a session on “Workplace Safety for Women in Construction.”
Ahman, a member of multiple global safety associations, emphasised the need for gender-sensitive safety policies.
“Women face unique risks on construction sites. We need inclusive training and protective measures that reflect this,” he said.
He stressed that safety must evolve to reflect the diversity of today’s workforce.
Another session, titled “Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities in Craftsmanship,” was led by Ms Asange Ann.
Ann encouraged participants to shift from survival work to building structured businesses.
“Your hands hold value—but your mind builds the future. It’s time to turn skills into success,” she said.
She discussed how skills like carpentry, tailoring, metalwork, and bead-making can become viable enterprises.
Ann urged participants to apply branding, digital marketing, and niche identification to grow their businesses.
Participants concluded the event with handson knowledge and a renewed focus on building sustainable livelihoods.
