Economic empowerment strengthens families, minister tells women

Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has highlighted the crucial role of economic empowerment in fostering family cohesion, asserting that self-sufficient women can create a ripple effect in their communities.

“When women are economically empowered, they can train their children who, in turn, fill the economic gaps of their families. This will significantly reduce cases of sexual and gender-based violence,” the minister said on Wednesday.

She made the statement while commissioning the Nigerian For Women Project Bokwosayi Women Rice Processing Factory at Gwachipe, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago and representatives of the World Bank.

Describing the project as a “transformative milestone,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said, “This initiative represents a beacon of hope, a symbol of progress, and a testament to the resilience and potential of Nigerian women, especially in Niger State.”

She also lauded the integration of childcare facilities within the factory, calling it “a groundbreaking initiative that addresses one of the most significant barriers to women’s economic participation in balancing work and childcare. This step exemplifies forward-thinking leadership and sets a precedent for inclusive economic planning.”

According to a statement by the Minister, the NFWP is a testament to President Bola  Tinubu’s commitment to gender equality and the socio-economic upliftment of women.

“It is ‘Women o’ Clock.’ This project is a long-term, multidimensional intervention addressing systemic and market barriers that have long hindered women’s progress,” she added.

The minister thanked the World Bank and Governor Bago for their support, noting that empowering women will lead to reduced cases of sexual and gender-based violence and better welfare for families.

On behalf of the World Bank Country Director, Mr. Micheal Ilesanmi explained the purpose of the NFWP, stating, “This project aims to economically empower women in Nigeria, enabling them to improve household welfare and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.”

Ilesanmi shared a story about the project’s impact, saying, “An Emir shared how the project has reduced complaints from wives about their husbands’ inability to meet family needs. This underscores its effectiveness in improving family dynamics.”

He further disclosed that each rice processing station can produce two tonnes of rice daily, adding to the output of over 29 such factories in the state.

In his remarks, Governor Mohammed Bago celebrated the initiative, saying, “When a woman is empowered, the effect trickles down to her family and the entire community.”

He promised his administration’s continued support for women and expressed gratitude to the Minister for her contributions.

The event underscores the Federal Government’s efforts to promote women’s economic empowerment and highlights the positive impact of collaborative partnerships in driving social and economic transformation.