By Karen James
In an effort to improve entrepreneurship and empower women in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has distributed 368 items in 15 states across the country. This initiative aims to enhance the socio-economic status of women, particularly in rural areas.
During a press conference in Abuja, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, announced that the first phase of distribution included items such as Garri processing and frying machines, sewing machines, industrial irons, tapping machines, and rice milling machines. These items were distributed to states including Anambra, Kano, Rivers, Imo, Lagos, Oyo, and Katsina.
The Minister emphasized the need to empower women and the vulnerable population, stating that past efforts have not yielded significant results in improving their living conditions, especially in rural areas. The President is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all Nigerians, and women and children are a significant part of the population.
Furthermore, the Ministry is collaborating with a financial institution to provide 1,000 units of Point Of Sale (POS) machines per state to facilitate ease of doing business. A private company is also offering free training for 300 women on skills acquisition in computer solutions, coding, and other internet skills, which will be followed by the provision of free laptops to help start their own businesses.
The Ministry is also focusing on skill acquisition training programs in rice and fish farming, tailoring, and other business ventures. Last year, a partnership with a Chinese firm resulted in training participants from seven states on rice farming and processing, in addition to other training programs aimed at building the capacity of women in various business ventures.
To ensure transparency and proper coordination, the Ministry is working with State Commissioners for Women Affairs and the Council of Traditional Rulers. The distribution of empowerment items will be officially commissioned and handed over to the Governors through the Commissioners for Women Affairs of the benefiting states, fostering stronger collaborations to further scale up women empowerment in those states.
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs is determined to uplift Nigerian women and create a more equal and empowered society, thus making significant strides in women empowerment across the country. By Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai Special Assistant, Media
