The Nigeria for Women Programme – Scale-Up Project has announced plans to open bank accounts for 3.1 million women across the country, reducing the number of unbanked women in Nigeria from about 37 million to 34 million. The initiative, backed by the World Bank and the Federal Government, is being implemented in collaboration with participating states to institutionalise Women Affinity Groups and other structures that promote women’s economic empowerment.
Speaking at a state-level orientation programme for staff in Asaba, Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr Sunny Ekedayen, said the state had both the financial resources and human capacity to implement the project successfully.
Dr Ekedayen, who also chairs the project’s Multi-Sectoral Coordination Structure, stated that the initiative would empower women, strengthen family systems, and help build more resilient communities across the state. He revealed that the programme would begin with three pilot local government areas—Ethiope East, Ika North East, and Warri North—and that community engagement would start from the grassroots level.
He called on staff to demonstrate full commitment to the project, noting that their dedication would determine its success. “Your commitment will not only drive the success of this project but will also ensure the positive transformation of families and communities across Delta State,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Dr Pat Ajudua, said the programme aligns with her ministry’s mandate to improve the social and economic well-being of women in the state. She highlighted the need to ensure that women are not left behind in the state’s development efforts.
“We must ensure our women are equipped with the skills, confidence, and platforms they need to live productive and dignified lives,” Dr Ajudua said.
Acting Delta State Project Coordinator of the Nigeria for Women Programme – Scale-Up, Mrs Abigail Okonkwo, explained that the scheme targets economically active women aged 18 years and above, who will form Women Affinity Groups made up of 15 to 25 members. She added that the programme will be implemented in four phases over five years, covering community institution building, livelihood support, and monitoring and evaluation.
Participants at the orientation workshop, drawn from the ministries of Health, Agriculture, Water Resources, Women Affairs, and Economic Planning, received training on communication protocols, gender-based violence, and financial management.
Read Also: How to Apply for NFWP Grant in Nigeria (Full Guide)
