Abuja:Building resilient communities in Nigeria largely depends on empowering rural women, educating girls, and strengthening partnerships with traditional institutions, according to Inner Wheel District 910, an NGO.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Fehintola Adeseun, the District Chairman, highlighted the critical role rural women play in socioeconomic progress at a symposium in Abuja commemorating the 2026 International Rural Women’s Day. The event was organized by the Association of Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers in collaboration with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat.
Adeseun urged government, traditional institutions, and civil society organizations to actively contribute to change rather than waiting for it. She noted that rural women, as the backbone of local economies, face significant barriers such as limited access to education, medical infrastructure, credit, and leadership roles.
She emphasized that empowering rural women is an investment in community and national futures. Adeseun also pointed out the influential role of traditional rulers’ wives in promoting education, women’s empowerment, and community harmony.
Inner Wheel District 910, covering areas in the FCT, Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, has a strong record of community interventions. The organization has provided women with essential tools and business grants, improved water access in several communities, and supported educational infrastructure and vocational training.
Adeseun called for enhanced collaboration among traditional rulers, public agencies, private enterprises, and community-based organizations to achieve sustainable development. She stressed the importance of involving rural women as active partners in policy development and solution implementation, ensuring their voices are heard and their potential realized.