The Jigawa State Government has inaugurated a Multi-Sectoral Coordination Steering Committee to oversee the implementation of the Nigeria for Women Programme (NFWP), a collaborative initiative between the World Bank and the Federal Government aimed at advancing women’s economic empowerment.
During the inauguration, Governor Malam Umar Namadi highlighted that the programme aligns with his administration’s commitment to removing barriers to women’s prosperity and strengthening the social and economic capacity of women across the state. “The Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) is a World Bank-assisted programme being implemented in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria to support improved livelihoods and the socioeconomic development of women,” the governor noted.
He reiterated his dedication to the success of the programme, stating that it will address institutional and market challenges that limit women’s participation in economic development. “We therefore hope to create an enabling environment for improved productive livelihoods and the socioeconomic advancement of women through the NFWP,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the committee members, Chairperson Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab—also the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development—thanked the governor for entrusting them with the responsibility and pledged their full commitment to the success of the project.
According to a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Gumel, the committee will play a vital role in shaping policy direction, coordinating inter-ministerial efforts, and ensuring that the programme remains aligned with Jigawa State’s development goals.
Chaired by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, the committee includes commissioners from key ministries such as Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Health, Agriculture, Basic Education, Water Resources, and Local Government. It also comprises the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, who will serve as the committee’s secretary.
The committee’s responsibilities include reviewing and approving annual work plans and budgets, encouraging collaboration across local government areas, ensuring stakeholder participation, and promoting resource sharing across sectors. It will also support women’s affinity groups and cooperatives, guide sectoral priorities in line with project goals, and monitor implementation progress.