THE WORLD BANK has announced a $100 million investment in women’s empowerment programs in six Nigerian states.
Michael Ilesannmi, a World Bank Social Development Specialist, revealed this on Thursday during Nigeria For Women project in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
According to him, the project is a Nigerian government initiative aimed at empowering women to achieve economic independence. The World Bank backs the program.
“This project, Nigeria For Women project, is a government of Nigeria program with World Bank support,” Ilesannmi explained.
“The first phase of Nigeria For Women project is a $100 million World Bank-funded initiative being implemented by the government in six Nigerian states: Ogun, Abia, Akwa-Ibon, Kebbi, Taraba, and Niger.”
“It is based on the government’s priority of investing in women because investing in women is smart economics.”
“Improving women’s livelihoods and attempting to invest in and change discriminatory social norms that prevent women from reaching their full potential.”
Shubaham Chaudhuri, Country Director of the World Bank, stated in his speech that the project aimed to improve Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic development.
“The World Bank is partnering with Nigeria and the Ogun State Government to empower women and grow the country’s economy,” he said.
“A program like this contributes to primary and family healthcare by ensuring that every child and family receives healthcare services.” It helps the 15 million children who should be in school stay in school; farmers have access to markets, and every Nigerian has access to electricity.
“So, across the board, Nigeria has so many potentials, and there is a certain investment that the government needs to make in the people, in the infrastructure, and that is what we are here to do.”