Women Empowerment Program Launched in Ekiti State

On June 2024, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs, launched a women empowerment scale-up program in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The initiative aims to dismantle barriers that hinder women's access to financial markets and economic opportunities.

The first phase of the program targets 450,000 women nationwide, with an ultimate goal of reaching approximately five million women. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State expressed support for the program, emphasizing the state's commitment to contribute 450 million naira to qualified participants.

The program will also involve the establishment of nearly 1,500 women's affinity groups. Michael Ilesanmi, a senior social development specialist from the World Bank, highlighted that financial assistance alone does not address entrenched barriers faced by women.

The program combines savings, credit, business development, leadership training, and social support to confront harmful social norms and gender-based violence. The launch signifies a renewed hope for poverty reduction and economic empowerment for women in Ekiti State.