Governor Malam Umar Namadi has inaugurated a Multi-Sectoral Coordination Steering Committee to support the implementation of the Nigeria for Women Programme NFWP in Jigawa State.
The initiative, backed by the World Bank in partnership with the Federal Government, aims to enhance women’s livelihoods and drive inclusive socioeconomic development.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony at the Council Chambers in Dutse, Governor Namadi emphasized the alignment of the NFWP with the state’s developmental priorities, particularly in empowering women through targeted interventions.
He stressed the importance of addressing the institutional and market constraints hindering women’s economic participation.
According to the Governor, the newly constituted Steering Committee will provide policy direction and facilitate coordination among key ministries.
It is chaired by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab, with membership drawn from relevant ministries and departments, including Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Health, Agriculture, and Education.
The Committee’s terms of reference include reviewing work plans and budgets, promoting inter-agency collaboration, supporting women’s cooperatives and affinity groups, and monitoring the program’s implementation to ensure alignment with project goals.
Governor Namadi expressed optimism that the program would catalyze the formation of sustainable women-led cooperatives, enhance skills acquisition, and foster entrepreneurship across the state.
In her response, Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab, speaking on behalf of the committee members, expressed gratitude to the governor and pledged their full commitment to achieving the program’s objectives.
The inauguration marks a significant step toward improving gender equity and creating an enabling environment for women’s social and economic advancement in Jigawa State.
USMAN MZ
