Fatima Sa'ad | Katsina Times
The Katsina State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Abubakar Yar’adua, has lauded the World Bank for its instrumental support in implementing the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP), while urging for more practical and inclusive measures to empower women, particularly those in rural communities.
Speaking at the NFWP Scale-Up Summit held at the Banquet Hall of the Katsina Government House on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, Hajiya Yar’adua stressed the importance of moving from dialogue to action in transforming the lives of Nigerian women.
“The World Bank has served as both a technical and financial partner, playing a crucial role in enabling states to develop systems that help women to organise, save, access credit, and grow their businesses,” she said.
She noted that the successes recorded so far under the NFWP were the result of strong collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the World Bank.
“This summit is more than just a platform for ideas. It is a wake-up call for leaders, partners, and stakeholders to turn this project into a catalyst for real transformation,” she added.
The commissioner highlighted that the timing of the project is critical, especially in Northern Nigeria, where more women are seeking opportunities, recognition, and support.
“Women are ready to contribute meaningfully. They are asking for tools, platforms, and access to thrive. States like Niger, Kebbi, and Ogun have shown what’s possible with political will and community support,” she explained.
She also identified funding as one of the major challenges facing women-led cooperatives and small businesses.
“Women have shown discipline in managing resources. What they need is access, trust, and the right support systems. Financial institutions, microfinance banks, and development partners must step up with inclusive and practical solutions,” Yar’adua said.
The commissioner further urged stakeholders to prioritise inclusion, particularly for rural women, young girls, persons with disabilities, widows, and women displaced by conflict.
“As we begin this summit here in Katsina, we must be united in building a future where no woman is left behind,” she said.
Hajiya Yar’adua also expressed appreciation to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for his unwavering support for women's development in the state.
“Your Excellency, we thank you for believing in this project, for your efforts to uplift rural women, and for giving leaders like myself the platform to drive change,” she concluded.
