By Ahmed Ahmed
ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (WVL-N) project has directly impacted 517,365 women and girls, with an indirect reach extending to over 1.5 million individuals in Bauchi state.
Mr Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria stated this at closed out and dissemination of WVL Nigeria five years impact in the State on Tuesday in Bauchi
He said the five-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), has directly impacted women and girls through various skills empowerment.
Mamedu, represented by Deputy Country Director,Hajiya Suwaiba Dankabo said since its inception in 2019, the WVL-N project has been driven by an unwavering commitment to empower women, challenge entrenched cultural practices, and promote gender equality.
“Through the invaluable support of Global Affairs Canada and the collaborative efforts of over 100 Women’s Rights Organizations inclusive of 1 Network organisation, 3 Local Women’s Rights Organisations and 12 Community Based Organisations here in Bauchi state,
“We have provided direct support to 517,365 women and girls across communities in 18 LGAs. We use this opportunity to commend the Governor of Bauchi state,
“Through economic programmes like the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), 365 groups have been formed and over 297,408,254.00 Naira has been saved by these women in Bauchi state.
He added with a significant investment of 357,633,398.44 Naira, this project has touched the lives of over 1.5 million individuals in the state, including women, girls, men, boys, and Persons with Disabilities,” she said.
According to him, these interventions have touched the lives of countless women, girls, persons with disability and their families.
“From providing safe spaces and legal support for survivors of gender-based violence to promoting women’s economic empowerment and justice as well as enhancing their participation in leadership roles,
Mamedu said the achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication of all our partners, stakeholders, and community members, within a conducive working environment provided by the state government and stakeholders.
“Together, we have made significant strides towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, and today, we celebrate the positive change that has been achieved through our collective efforts,” he said.
In a remark, Gov Bala Mohammed, represented by Commissioner for Youth and Sports development Mohammed salis commended Action Aid Nigeria for impacting much in the lives of women and children in the State.
Mrs Uju Kennedy- Ohanenye, Federal Minister of Women Affairs also commended the interventions of ActionAid Nigeria on violence against women and girls, women political participation and security.
The Minister, represented by Hajiya Hauwa Mustapha of the Department of Women affairs: “We pray that the support particularly in the passage of the gender bills before the National Assembly would be resuscitated and passed at this 10th Assembly.