Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has approved N3.5 billion as counterpart funding for the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP-SU) across all 11 Local Government Areas of the state. This move aims to expand the programme's reach and provide more women with financial empowerment, savings, livelihood, and enterprise development opportunities. The governor's approval was disclosed by the Task Team Lead of the NFWP-SU, Mr. Michael Ilesonmi.
The NFWP-SU programme has been implemented in three Local Government Areas of Balanga, Yamaltu-Deba, and Funakaye. With the governor's approval, the programme will now be extended to all 11 LGAs across the state. Ilesonmi commended Gombe State's implementation of the programme, describing it as the best-performing state in its implementation. This development is expected to significantly increase the number of women who can benefit from the programme.
The Women Affinity Groups (WAG) provide platforms for women to save, access loans, develop businesses, and strengthen their economic and social participation. The programme's implementation in Gombe State has been successful, with women beneficiaries testifying that it has improved their financial discipline, encouraged savings, and reduced their dependence on others. The governor's administration has introduced and supported several initiatives targeting women and girls.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya's administration remains committed to strengthening women's economic empowerment and creating an enabling environment for women and girls to thrive. The state has supported several initiatives, including the AGILE Project. The governor urged women to take full advantage of opportunities provided by the government and development partners. He also encouraged women to complement their growing economic participation with greater involvement in politics, leadership, and decision-making.
The governor emphasized the need for sustainable programmes, policies, and institutional frameworks that will continue to support women beyond the tenure of the present administration. He made this remark while speaking at the presentation and demonstration of the Women Affinity Group meeting procedures. The event was attended by women beneficiaries, who welcomed the announcement of the N3.5 billion approval.
The National Project Coordinator, Dr. Hadiza Maina, explained that the Women Affinity Groups provide platforms for women to save, access loans, develop businesses, and strengthen their economic and social participation. The programme has been successful in improving the lives of women in the state. Women beneficiaries have reported positive impacts on their financial discipline and economic empowerment.
The approval of the N3.5 billion counterpart funding is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of women in Gombe State. The programme's expansion to all 11 LGAs will provide more women with opportunities for financial empowerment, savings, livelihood, and enterprise development. The governor's administration has demonstrated its commitment to supporting women's economic empowerment and creating an enabling environment for women and girls to thrive.
Key points
- Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya approves N3.5 billion for Nigeria for Women Project
- The programme will be extended to all 11 Local Government Areas of the state
- The governor's administration remains committed to strengthening women's economic empowerment
