Esther Salifu
The Founder of True Need Stage Empowerment Foundation, Dr Austin Olufemi Olasupo has emphasised the need for government to empower women at the grassroots by ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed.
He stated this at an advocacy and training organized by Trueeneed Empowerment Stage Foundation in collaboration with other NGOs.
The Founder expressed optimism to always support positive initiatives that will transform lives of women at the grassroots.
“We are here to amplify the voices of the grassroots women, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed by the government. Their active participation is crucial for meaningful change in the society”, he said.
Dr Olasupo urged women across Nigeria to recognize their potential and actively participate in societal affairs, encouraging them to remain focused in their pursuit for excellence.
” Women need to expand their effort, seek education and empowerment opportunities. Active involvement and education are essential for women to contribute effectively to policymaking processes”, he said.
He urged the Ministry of Women Affairs to
to support women at the grassroots by meeting their need.
The Executive Director of Advocacy Group for Women With Disabilities Mrs. Patience Okolo Dickson, emphasised the need to address negative stigma against women with disabilities.
“The negative attitude towards women with disabilities significantly affects their morale and reduces their space in the business arena. We need to address cultural stigma and provide equal opportunities for these women to thrive.”
Dickson who is known for her tireless efforts in advocating for the rights of women with disabilities, called for support in terms of education and training.
“Many of these women lack education and financial resources, making it challenging for them to break free from dependency on their families or communities.
Women with disabilities has limited access to economic opportunities and decision-making power particularly those in grassroots communities. “
On the issue of underrepresentation of persons with disabilities in the workforce, Mrs. Dickson revealed that only a mere 5% quota has been earmarked for them.
She called for intensified advocacy and awareness campaigns to ensure that these quotas are met and that opportunities for employment and inclusion are expanded.
The Group Managing Director of Betterwings Group, Dr Victor Dare, underscores the importance of financial literacy and self-reliance for women in Nigeria, particularly in accessing funding for business ventures.
“Starting with menial jobs is often the best way to kickstart a business venture, as it allows individuals to save up funds for investment,” Dr. Dare explained.
He emphasized the availability of government grants but highlighted the necessary protocols and requirements for accessing them, including the need for financial education and business planning.
“Government grants are not handouts; they are meant for business development, and as such, come with restrictions and monitoring,” he clarified.
He encouraged women to explore various sources of income, including menial jobs and subsistence farming, as viable means to accumulate funds for entrepreneurship.
“Even in the absence of adequate government support, women can still start businesses by leveraging their skills and resources,” he said.
A Social Development Professional working with Leap Africa on the Nigeria Youth Future Funds project, Maimuna Sani Magaji urged women from all walks of life to seize opportunities and take leadership roles.
“Women have been relegated to the background for far too long. It is time for us to step forward and claim the leadership positions we rightfully deserve,” Magaji asserted.
Magaji emphasized the importance of advocacy and mentorship in empowering women.
She urged participants to pass down their knowledge and skills through mentorship programs, reaching out to community development service (CDS) groups for corp members and beyond.
She further highlighted the ongoing need for support and solidarity among women.
“We need to ensure that the momentum of women celebration continues beyond the designated month. Let us carry on the wave of celebrating womanhood and empower each other”, she said.
