The Kaduna State Government has approved N4.5 billion for a special intervention aimed at empowering at least 15,000 women in the state.
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to adopting the National Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy.
Hajiya Rabi Salisu, the Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, announced this during a one-day citizens’ engagement workshop, on Friday.
The workshop was organized by the Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) to support the policy’s adoption in Kaduna State.
Salisu emphasized the state’s dedication to investing in women and girls through various initiatives in economic development, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.
She praised the centre for its support and assured that Kaduna would lead the way in promoting and improving the living standards of women.
She highlighted the state’s progress in social interventions, including cash transfers, skills acquisition, education, and social development.
Salisu noted that launching the policy would attract more investment and promote inclusion within the state.
Dr. Judith-Ann Walker, Executive Director of the centre, represented by Malam Hassan Karofi, Director of Partnerships and Communications, explained that the support was aimed at fostering inclusion. Walker mentioned that 24 more states are slated to receive support to adopt the policy.
She added that Nigeria could gain over $2.5 billion in investment and economic growth if the policy is implemented nationwide.
With women making up over 50 percent of the population, Kaduna State stands to gain significantly from the economic opportunities that come with empowering women.
Mrs. Rimicit Aboki, Gender Lead at the Albright Stonebridge Group, encouraged sub-national governments to unlock the potential of women’s economic empowerment by adopting and implementing the policy.
Julia Vaillan, Head of the Nigeria Gender Innovation Lab at the World Bank, represented by Mr. Musa Yusuf, commended Kaduna State for embracing the policy.
She assured that the World Bank would provide technical assistance to support the policy’s adoption in the state.
