The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has reiterated the administration’s commitment to women’s empowerment with the formal handover of the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) Collective Groups and Hubs to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Speaking at the handover event in Abeokuta, Salako-Oyedele said, “Though the Project is now officially concluded and wound down, this handover is a reaffirmation of our administration’s commitment to sustaining the inclusion, upliftment, and success of women through the Project across our State.”
The NFWP, a $15 million World Bank-funded initiative, spanned five years and impacted over 67,000 women in Ijebu North-East, Odeda, Yewa North, and Ikenne Local Government Areas. The project established 3,792 Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), equipping women with business skills, financial education, gender awareness, and life skills.
During the event, Salako-Oyedele acknowledged Governor Dapo Abiodun’s role in ensuring the project’s success, saying, “I acknowledge the unflinching support of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, whose leadership and vision have provided the NFWP with the resources and backing necessary for its success.”
She also commended traditional leaders, religious heads, and supportive husbands who helped overcome cultural and religious barriers, enabling women to participate actively in the initiative.
As part of the handover, 61 Collective Groups, comprising 11,435 WAG members, will continue activities in agricultural and non-agricultural value chains. These include:
2 Rice Processing Hubs
5 Maize Storage and Marketing Hubs
38 Cassava Processing Hubs
7 Cassava/Maize Production Hubs
9 Tailoring Hubs
Reflecting on the impact of the project, the Deputy Governor shared her thoughts on the women’s testimonials. “Listening to the testimonials from women at the event was heartwarming and further validated the impact of this project on the lives of our women,” she said.
The event concluded with a celebration of the women’s achievements and a call to sustain the gains made through the project. Salako-Oyedele remarked, “We wish our women the very best in this new phase. Congratulations to all of us.”
The Nigeria for Women Project has left an indelible mark, demonstrating the Ogun State government’s dedication to advancing women’s economic and social well-being.
