Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo has approved the full implementation of the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up in Kogi State, marking a major step toward improving women’s economic empowerment and local development. The Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up, a Federal Government initiative supported by the World Bank, is designed to boost women’s livelihoods through better access to financial services, entrepreneurship support, and stronger community networks that encourage sustainable economic growth. This move aligns with high-value development goals such as financial inclusion, poverty reduction, and community-based economic empowerment.
The State Project Coordinator, Dr. Esther Ameadaji, speaking on behalf of the State Project Coordinator’s Unit, praised Governor Ododo for endorsing the rollout of the project across the three senatorial districts. According to her, the project will begin in Okene Local Government Area in Kogi Central, Yagba East Local Government Area in Kogi West, and Dekina Local Government Area in Kogi East. She described the Governor’s approval as a demonstration of his “visionary leadership, steadfast commitment to women’s empowerment, and continuous support for inclusive economic initiatives.”
Dr. Ameadaji explained that the Governor’s decision reflects his concern for the socioeconomic progress of women and his desire to ensure sustainable development across all communities in the state. She noted that “The Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) is a strategic long-term partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the World Bank to support the government’s goal of ensuring gender equality.”
She added that the project’s structure is unique, stating that “This project’s design is the first of its kind to be implemented in Nigeria and Kogi State with the introduction of a model- Women Affinity Groups where existing women groups will be institutionalized and new groups will be formed to enable women gain easy access to the empowerment program.” The Women Affinity Groups approach aims to create a stronger foundation for financial empowerment, improved credit access, and skill development.
Dr. Ameadaji highlighted that the project will help remove barriers that limit women’s financial stability and economic participation. She said, “This project will address barriers to women’s prosperity and build social assets for women’s economic participation which is critical for inclusive poverty reduction in Nigeria.” She further explained that the NFWP plans to achieve these goals by applying strategies that improve economic outcomes for women and strengthen household and community well-being.
She encouraged women aged 18 and above across Kogi State to participate actively in the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up. She described the initiative as a special opportunity to improve livelihood activities, increase household income, and contribute to the state’s economic transformation.
The Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up introduces a new phase of empowerment for women in Kogi State, equipping them with the tools to build sustainable businesses, support their families, and contribute to inclusive economic growth.
For enquiries, the State Project Coordinator’s Unit can be reached via kgsnfwpsu@gmail.com or 07052803847.
