By David Okpala/Stella Okpala
Women in Akpo Community, Aguata Local Government Area(LGA), have been encouraged to embrace entrepreneurship by forming cooperative groups to benefit from government empowerment programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting economic growth.
The call was made during a sensitisation programme organised by the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) at Agbelu Village Hall, Akpo, on July 1.
Speaking at the event, a representative of the Nigeria for Women Project, Dr. Ekene Adokwe, said the prevailing economic realities demand a shift from consumption to production through entrepreneurship.
According to him, the initiative is in line with the vision of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to economically empower women and strengthen household incomes across the state.
“The current economic situation calls for people to become producers rather than consumers, informing the establishment of programmes that support women to build sustainable businesses and become economically independent,” he said.
Dr. Adokwe encouraged women to form groups of between 20 and 25 members with shared business interests, explaining that such groups would receive training, mentorship and support to establish and grow viable enterprises.
“We will provide the knowledge required to grow your businesses, offer training in financial management and facilitate access to resources that will strengthen your ventures,” he added.
He stressed the importance of involving men in the programme, noting that sustainable community development requires the collective efforts of both men and women.
In her presentation, the Gender-Based Violence Anchor of the Nigeria for Women Project State Coordination Unit (NFWP-SCU), Lady Chinenye Frances Ilona, warned against gender inequality, sexual abuse and all forms of gender-based violence.
She described inclusiveness and equal opportunities as essential for the success of the empowerment programme, urging women in the community to take advantage of the initiative.
“This programme is designed to empower women, but it can only achieve its objectives in an environment free from discrimination and violence,” she said.
Participants described the sensitisation programme as timely and impactful, expressing optimism that it would create new opportunities for economic empowerment and improved livelihoods within the community.
David Okpala/Stella Okpala are of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
