Ogun NFWP inaugurates project champions, records 3,486 WAGs
Ogun State Sees Progress in Women Empowerment Initiative
Ogun State has reached a notable achievement in its efforts to empower women with the inauguration of Project Champions under the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU). The event took place across four local government areas, marking a significant step forward in women’s economic inclusion.
According to reports, Ogun State now hosts 3,486 Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), benefiting a total of 83,664 women. This initiative, backed by the World Bank, aims to expand to 4,000 WAGs and is currently active in Ado-Odo/Ota, Ifo, Ijebu-Ode, and Sagamu.
At the inauguration ceremony, Augusta Araba, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Affairs, described the Project Champions as pivotal agents in enhancing economic opportunities for unbanked women. Since the program’s launch in June 2023, it has aimed to transform the socio-economic landscape of the state through initiatives focused on financial inclusion, enterprise development, and community involvement.
Araba praised the Project Champions for their commitment, citing their vital role in grassroots mobilization and advocacy. Their efforts have facilitated the training of 440 ward facilitators, equipping them with skills in financial literacy, digital inclusion, and enterprise development to help overcome barriers to women’s economic participation.
Bolanle Fadairo, the State Project Coordinator, stressed the importance of commitment and integrity among the Project Champions. She emphasized that their adherence to the program’s objectives is essential for its success. Fadairo urged them to remain focused on community development rather than personal interests.
Rasheed Ajibade, Head of Operations for NFWP-SU, reflected on the successful pilot phase of the project from 2020 to 2023, which involved several local government areas, including Odeda and Ijebu North East. He encouraged the Champions to view themselves as accountable drivers of change, emphasizing that their efforts will significantly influence the program’s future success.
In addition, Taiwo Fredrick, the Behaviour Change Communication Advisor for NFWP-SU, highlighted the crucial role of Project Champions in ensuring the initiative’s sustainability. He outlined their responsibilities, which include field monitoring, advocacy, and promoting Women Affinity Groups. Fredrick also urged the Champions to prioritize transparency and collaboration with stakeholders to enhance the initiative’s impact at the community level.
As the program continues, leaders and advocates alike recognize the importance of collective progress, stressing that no woman should be left behind in the pursuit of economic opportunities.
