Over 100 women groups from the 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory have demanded both federal and state governments to increase more economic programmes for women at national and state levels which will lead to more investment opportunities and access to capital that will enhance the lives of 49% of Nigerian women population.
Their demands were made at the 2021 leadership training of the Ministry of youth and sports, organised by the national council of women societies in collaboration with Partnership for Advancing Women in Economic Development (PAWED).
In her opening speech, President, National Council of Women Societies, Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda, said with 49% of the total population of the country being women and its representation being less than 2% in the formal sector, it was evident that Nigeria is not doing the right thing in elevating women.
“I think it is evident from the statistic available that although Nigerian women are hardworking and constitute almost 50% of the population and have proven to be reliable, capable and innovative, the atmosphere for conducive growth and opportunities to be at the board rooms, executive councils and positions of authority have not been provided,” she said.
CEO of Cooperatives financing association of Nigeria (CFAN), Mr Emmanuel Atama, stated that more women should also be encouraged to keep savings as that will give them a room of opportunity to invest in bigger opportunities.
He further stated that “Asides access to capital, women should also demand for their access to secure pension, access to health care and access to property as that will firm up their economic standing.”
Barrister Vera Ndanusa, President of National Association of Women Businesses called for women and young female adults to identify with women groups as that will make information sharing easier and also build a stronger business network amongst the Nigerian women.
