- Distributes family food palliatives to Lagos, FCT households
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has emphasised that empowering women, who are seen as pivotal to driving economic growth is crucial for achieving President Bola Tinubu’s goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2026,.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasized that women’s empowerment is essential for achieving this economic target during recent palliative distribution to various women groups in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and in Lagos State as part of its end-of-year intervention to support vulnerable women and families.
With Nigeria’s GDP currently estimated at approximately $362 billion, achieving a $1 trillion economy will require an average annual growth rate of around 38% over the next few years.
Tinubu had outlined a strategy that includes job creation, access to capital, and inclusivity—key areas where women play a crucial role. By investing in women’s potential across sectors like agriculture and technology, the government aims to unlock transformative economic contributions.
The Minister highlighted that initiatives like food palliatives for vulnerable women are part of a broader commitment to enhance their welfare and participation in the economy. This approach, she stated aligns with Tinubu’s vision of fostering a robust economic environment where all citizens can thrive, thereby ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for national prosperity.
Furthermore, she added, the government’s focus on financial inclusion aims to empower women financially, enabling them to contribute more significantly to economic activities.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the Renewed Hope Year-End Intervention programme, Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the initiative was to cushion the effects of the current economic challenges faced by women and families.
“Today’s event, the Renewed Hope Year-End Intervention for Vulnerable Women and Families, reflects President Bola Tinubu’s mission to address the pressing needs of vulnerable groups. This initiative marks the beginning of a new era, one where no one is left behind”l.”
She assured that the intervention would be replicated nationwide as part of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to advancing the welfare of women and children across the country.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim added that as part of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Vision, “we seek to build a
$1 trillion economy, and women are central to achieving this ambitious goal. By unlocking the full potential of women across various sectors, from agriculture to the creative and digital industries, we can create a transformative impact on Nigeria’s economy and society, she said.
The minister emphasized, “The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration is committed to expanding its mission of protecting and empowering women, children, their families, and other vulnerable groups.
“We aim to bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to safeguarding, protecting and empowering women and children across Nigeria. Women are the backbone of our society and empowering them is essential to fostering strong and resilient communities.
The Director-General of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Asabe l Bashir, and National President, Defence Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Oghogho Musa both described the initiative as timely, commending the Ministry for addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable groups.
In Lagos, the minister who was represented by one of her Technical Assistant, Ola Erinfolami, also reiterated the Minister’s determination to empower women, build resilient families and cater for the needs of vulnerable groups.
The different women thanked the President and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu and the Minister for the kind gestures, adding that the packages would go a long way in alleviating the plights of their families.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Lagos State have recently benefited from food palliatives distributed as part of the government’s efforts to support vulnerable families during the festive season. The initiative began with a flag-off event in the FCT on December 23, followed by a similar event in Lagos on December 24, 2024.
The Minister of announced that these distributions are part of a broader strategy to enhance food security and provide relief to families facing economic challenges.
“This initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable groups,” she stated, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to empowering women and children.
The palliatives, which included bags of rice and other essential food items, are aimed at alleviating hardships during the holiday season. Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that this program is not only about immediate relief but also about fostering resilience within communities. “Women are the backbone of our society, and empowering them is essential to fostering strong and resilient communities,” she added.
The initiative is part of a nationwide effort that has already reached states like Nasarawa, with plans for further distributions across the country. As families express gratitude for the support, officials encourage beneficiaries to utilize the items effectively to enhance their livelihoods during this critical time.