Minna: The wife of the Governor of Niger, Hajiya Fatima Bago, has empowered 250 petty traders and vulnerable women with N100,000 each as part of a significant initiative aimed at supporting widows, petty traders, and less-privileged women across the state. Speaking at the event in Minna, Bago emphasized that the initiative is driven by compassion and a desire to provide economic support and a sense of belonging to these women.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the cash support is not linked to any campaign or election activities but is solely intended to assist the vulnerable population. Bago expressed that this initiative marks the beginning of more positive developments, urging beneficiaries to utilize the funds to enhance their livelihoods. She described the program as a pilot phase of a broader empowerment initiative focused on women involved in small-scale businesses.
The initiative has been praised for its humanitarian approach, with Hajiya Hadiza Kuta, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, noting that many of the beneficiaries are petty traders. Kuta highlighted that the financial intervention is expected to significantly boost the women’s economic activities and improve the welfare of their families. With initial business capitals ranging between N10,000 and N25,000, the additional support is anticipated to bring about noticeable improvements.
Mrs. Mary Noel-Berje, a former Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affirmative Action, commended the program as a reflection of compassion, inclusion, and responsible leadership. She affirmed that the initiative demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable individuals are included in development efforts, further showcasing the government’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens.