30 Abuja teens benefit from free creative arts training
30 Abuja teens benefit from free creative arts training
No fewer than 30 vulnerable teenagers from Abuja suburbs have benefited from the 2025 Mara-nathan Free Creative Arts Training, aimed at building self-sufficiency and creativity among orphans and underprivileged youths.
The week-long programme, which ended Sunday, was organised by the Mara-nathan Global Arts Foundation and included training in video editing, painting, photography, social media management, graphic design, and other creative arts disciplines.
Speaking at the exhibition on Sunday, Founder Mr Lazarus Achimugu, said the initiative began in 2017 with the DAS (Dance, Acting, Singing) competition, which awarded scholarships to six deserving winners.
He added that in 2018 and 2023, the foundation hosted “Orphans Got Talent” to uncover raw potential in underserved communities, where top talents received monetary rewards and mentorship support.
“In 2025, we’ve taken another bold step with this Free Creative Arts Training, launched Aug. 25, to inspire creativity, growth, and personal development in vulnerable youths.
“In just a few days, I’ve witnessed immense passion and growth among participants. I am convinced the future of Nigerian youth is bright and filled with untapped creative potential,” he said.
He expressed optimism for the programme’s future, envisioning a society where no child was left behind due to background or hardship, and where every creative voice could contribute to national development.
Achimugu called for stronger collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, businesses, and individuals, noting that broad partnerships were needed to sustain training, expand outreach, and create more talent platforms nationwide.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, 18-year-old Victor Christopher thanked the organisers, noting that he learned photography, art, and interior design, skills he believed would positively shape his future and career path.
“I’ve learned so much. I really appreciate the organisers. This programme has impacted us greatly.
“We call on the government to support initiatives like this to empower more youths,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Miss Favour Kwalmi, pledged to use her skills professionally.
“I learned graphic design, video editing, photography, painting, and social media management, I now feel confident to start earning,” she stated.
She encouraged others to learn free creative skills.
“You don’t need to pay big money to learn design. These are accessible skills, and they can help you build something meaningful from nothing,” she added.
Miss Innocent Gift, winner of the 2018 Mara-nathan Music Talent Hunt, described the programme as a huge blessing, saying it continued to shape lives and unlock opportunities for many Nigerian youths.
“This programme has helped so many. I’m one of them.
“I use my singing talent to serve God and humanity. I hope this vision expands across Nigeria and beyond,” she said.
Pastor Esther Onyete of Redeemed Restoration Covenant Church, lauded the foundation’s consistency, urging public-private partnerships to sustain its life-changing work and leave lasting legacies for future generations.
She encouraged Nigerians to support the initiative.
“Where you cannot go, your money can go. If you can’t host a programme, partner with Mara-nathan to impact young lives,” she appealed.
Read Also: Yobe varsity begins dementia research, collects 1,100 blood,…
Mr Samson Ebiloma, a member of the board of the foundation, also applauded the initiative, calling it a powerful tool for national development.
“These skills can make the teens self-sufficient and contribute to their families and communities,” he said.
He added, “Mara-nathan means ‘coming soon,’ and indeed, more is coming.
“The foundation is building the future of Nigeria, one empowered youth at a time, and we hope it grows bigger.”
Mrs Gideon Bassi, of Family Worship Centre, expressed gratitude.
“This programme builds lasting capacity. These skills cannot be taken from them. May all the sponsors be richly rewarded for their support.”
The event’s high point was the presentation of certificates to participants and a special music performance by the 2018 Mara-nathan Music Competition champion, drawing applause from parents and guests alike.
