By Stephen Adeleye in Lokoja.
The Kogi Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Fatimah Momoh, has promised government’s commitment to prioritizing policies that would foster women’s economic empowerment in the state.
Momoh gave the assurance on Friday in Lokoja at a programme organised by her Ministry in collaboration with the Office of Kogi First Lady, to celebrate the 2024 International Women Day (IWD).
The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration to advancing women’s economic empowerment through viable policies.
She said that the government would be leveraging on the state’s natural resources and traditional industries for women’s economic empowerment.
Commissioner said:”The Kogi empowerment programme would focus on supporting self-reliance and internal capacity of women.
“We will ensure genuine investment in the growth of women and the well-being of the girlchild, and harnessing women’s creative skills for sustainable growth.
“Empowering women is not just about justice but a prerequisite for comprehensive, sustainable development.
“Additionally, gender-responsive policies and legislation that are vital to safeguarding women’s rights and ensuring inclusivity in governance will equally be prioritized.”
The commissioner stressed that the initiatives would include skills training, access to finance and entrepreneurship support, especially in rural areas.
According to her, “by creating an inclusive environment, we aim to strengthen the economy and provide financial security for women and their families.”
She announced that the ministry would hold its first empowerment programme in April 2024, assuring that all the necessary details would be announced in due time.
“I urge us to keep moving, to keep celebrating women’s achievements while reaffirming our commitment to an inclusive world,” she added.
The Wife of the Governor, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, congratulated women in Kogi, Nigeria and globally for their resilience, inspite all challenges faced.
The Kogi first lady stressed the need to work towards creating an enabling environment to empower women and children to pursue their dreams free of intimidation.
She assured of her total support for women and children in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, employment and skills acquisition, among others.
“As a mother, I promise my total support for women and children’s development at various levels to achieving their dreams for sustainable economic growth of the state,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme for 2024 IWD celebration, is “Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment,” aimed at promoting gender equality.
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