A coalition of government and civil society groups in Nasarawa State, central Nigeria, have emphasized the need for increased investment in women empowerment due to its potential to drive socio-economic growth and development.
The stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and community leaders, made the call during an event to commemorate the 2025 international-women’s-day on Saturday in Lafia.
They noted that investing in women’s education, healthcare, and economic empowerment would have a positive multiplier effect on the economy and society.
Princess Margaret Elayo, the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Humanitarian Services, said that prioritizing women’s empowerment initiatives, such as vocational training and in agriculture would yield significant benefits.
Elayo noted that women should no longer rely on handouts, but rather be supported to become self-sufficient and pursue their desires.
She emphasized that educated and skilled women can achieve great things, and it’s essential to educate and train them.
“This is the time to accelerate action and activate burning desires and passion in our women and support them to become whatever they desire to be.
“There is no limit to what an educated and skilled woman can achieve, hence the need for all hands to be on deck to educate and train them,” she added.
The Commissioner said that the ministry, under her, plans to embark on massive empowerment programs for women, focusing on 21st-century skills, and would support those interested in studies to become self-reliant.
Elayo appreciated Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State for appointing women into different key offices in his administration.
She further said that the ministry would mobilize women for political participation ahead of the 2027 general election to ensure that a lot of them seek elective positions.
On her part, Abigail Waya, State Head of Civil Service congratulated women all over the world on the celebration and urged them to prioritise the education and empowerment of women.
She emphasized that education and skills are the measure factors that would enable the voices of women to be hard and allow them to be in government.
Also, Mrs Grace Ogah, Assistant Secretary of the National Council of Women Society (NCNS,) who represented the state President of the association, appreciated President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Abdullahi Sule for appointing women into key positions in their government.
Sh,e therefore, appealed that more elective and appointed positions be given to women in line with the 35 percent affirmative action.
Also speaking at the event, Gov. Sule congratulated women on the occasion and promised to continue to promote them in any way possible to realize their potential.
Sule added that his administration had given women the opportunity to excel, which was why women are currently occupying key positions in the state.
“The Chief Judge, Commissioner for Justice, Commissioner for Finance, Vice Chancellor of state-owned university in Keffi, Secretary, Universal Basic Education Board, Executive Secretary of Scholarship Board, as well as the Head of Civil Service among others, are all women,” he added. (www.krestnews.com).