Empowerment Through Automotive Skills: A Call to Women for Financial Independence

Sandra Aguebor, the first lady mechanic in Nigeria and Vice-President of the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for the Automotive Industry, has unequivocally urged women to take advantage of the opportunities available in the automotive sector in order to achieve financial independence. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Aguebor emphasized the potential for women to attain economic freedom by acquiring skills in various specialized areas of the automotive industry.

Aguebor emphasized that women should explore the lucrative options within the automotive field instead of confining themselves to traditional white-collar jobs. With her guidance, over 2,000 female mechanics have been empowered in Nigeria, underscoring the significance of skills that empower women and provide a stable source of income.

In her impassioned appeal to women, Aguebor stated, “Even as a female corps member, you do not have to start going around the streets looking for a job when you can use your hand to learn a skill.” She offered herself as a mentor, inviting aspiring female mechanics to seek guidance and training at the council.

While recognizing the challenges faced by women in the industry, such as inadequate equipment and post-training support, Aguebor called upon the Federal Government for assistance. In particular, she urged the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NDACC) to collaborate with the Ministry of Housing in establishing garages where technicians, especially women, can operate. Aguebor highlighted the importance of government support in retaining skilled workers and attracting more individuals to the automotive industry.

NAN reports that the Lady Mechanic Initiative Africa, established in 2004, continues to lead the charge in empowering vulnerable girls and women with mechanical and technical skills. Aguebor’s automobile workshops, located in major cities across Nigeria, serve as hubs for fostering women’s economic independence through the automotive sector.

It is evident from Aguebor’s compelling message that she is dedicated to empowering women and enabling them to achieve financial independence through the acquisition of automotive skills. Her efforts have had a significant impact on the lives of women in Nigeria, offering them a pathway to economic freedom and a source of sustainable income.

As women continue to embrace the call to pursue automotive skills, the support of the government and relevant institutions is crucial in providing the necessary resources and infrastructure for their success in the automotive industry. With the guidance of inspirational figures like Sandra Aguebor, women can confidently pursue avenues that lead to financial independence and a brighter future.