By Emmanuel Kwada
In a significant move to empower women and children in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has announced plans to establish a N100bn emergency fund. This initiative, unveiled by Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Suleiman, at a high-level event in Abuja, aims to support women and children affected by crises.
The fund, expected to take effect from 2025, will not be limited to the ministry’s budget. Instead, it will also include support from development partners and other government agencies. Hon. Imaan emphasized the importance of a national action plan for the development of women and children, assuring that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to addressing relevant needs.
Hon. Imaan highlighted the ministry’s goal to support families of 10.5 million out-of-school children, with a focus on girls who make up 60% of this demographic
Citing the 2024 UNICEF report on education access, Hon. Imaan highlighted the ministry’s goal to support families of 10.5 million out-of-school children, with a focus on girls who make up 60% of this demographic. The minister also acknowledged the prevalence of child labor, trafficking, and abuse, noting that 4 out of 10 girls are married or in a union before the age of 18.
The event also featured remarks from the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ms. Elsie Attafuah, who reaffirmed her dedication to creating a society where every woman and girl can thrive. The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Amb. Gabriel Aduda, emphasized the significance of collaboration in driving transformative change.
Pathways to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Roadmap” unveiled at the event provides a strategic framework for addressing systemic barriers and promoting gender equality
The “Pathways to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Roadmap” unveiled at the event provides a strategic framework for addressing systemic barriers and promoting gender equality. With the support of stakeholders, including development partners, civil society, and the private sector, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs seeks to create pathways for women and girls to flourish in all spheres of life.
