The World Bank has disbursed ₦492 million to 41 women’s groups in Niger State to boost rice processing activities, marking a significant step toward women’s economic empowerment. Each group received ₦12 million under the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP), with the program’s state coordinator, Sarki Bello, overseeing the allocations.
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, hailed the initiative as a transformative milestone for Nigerian women. She emphasized its role in improving household welfare, addressing systemic barriers, and fostering economic empowerment.
“The inclusion of childcare facilities within the factory sets a groundbreaking precedent by tackling one of the biggest challenges for working women—balancing work and family responsibilities,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated. She further highlighted the project’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to gender equality and economic inclusion.
The program also saw the state government construct a crèche at the facility, with plans to upgrade it into a primary healthcare center to cater to women and children.
Michael Ilesanmi, speaking on behalf of the World Bank Country Director, noted that the NFWP empowers women to be self-sufficient, improve household livelihoods, and contribute to state and national economies. Each rice processing station is capable of producing two tonnes of rice daily, bolstering the state’s agricultural output.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing its positive ripple effects on families and communities. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting women-focused projects and commended the World Bank and other partners for their contributions.
This project is expected to significantly reduce cases of gender-based violence while promoting family cohesion and enhancing the socio-economic fabric of Niger State.
