No fewer than 4,000 young people on Wednesday graduated from the Fashion Future Programme (FFP), held as part of the “Fashion Games 2026 – AHIA 360°” initiative in Aba, Abia State.
The programme, organised by Ethnocentrique Limited in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, culminated in a colourful ceremony at the Enyimba International Stadium, showcasing participants’ creativity, skills and entrepreneurial potential within the fashion ecosystem.
Speaking at the event, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State described the initiative as a strategic model for talent development, enterprise growth and market access. In his address titled “Empowered to Soar,” Otti expressed satisfaction with the programme’s impact and announced plans to expand it to 8,000 youths next year.
“It is fulfilling to see thousands of young people embrace this opportunity, positioning themselves to harness its economic potential and build unique skill sets,” he said.
The governor commended the discipline and commitment of participants, urging them to maximise the opportunity to build sustainable careers. He also lauded the Mastercard Foundation, Ethnocentrique Limited and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for their roles in the programme’s success, alongside relevant state ministries.
In her welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethnocentrique Limited, Mrs. Irunna Ejibe Isichei, appreciated parents and stakeholders for their trust, describing it as critical to the programme’s success. She also highlighted the contribution of over 4,200 Master Craft Professionals and MSMEs, whom she described as the backbone of the initiative.
Also speaking, the Country Director of the Mastercard Foundation, Mrs. Rosa Fynn, said the programme aligns with the foundation’s goal of enabling 10 million young Nigerians to access dignified employment by 2030, particularly within the creative and digital sectors. She noted that more than 6,000 youths have benefited from the initiative in the past two years.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including top government officials, lawmakers and industry stakeholders.
The ceremony featured a fashion parade of graduates organised into 16 groups, alongside presentations of certificates and group photographs, marking the formal transition of participants into the global fashion market.
