From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Minister of State for Steel Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, has stated that collaboration between the government and the private sector would positive change in the country.
Ahmadu made this disclosure in Abuja at the grand finale of the Mennonite Economic Development Association, MEDA, a youth entrepreneurship and women empowerment for northern Nigeria.
He described the collaboration between the seven Local Government Areas of Bauchi, Dass, Ganjuwa, Toro, Jama’are, Warji and Katagun as not only a testament to the resilience of the communities but also a demonstration of what is achievable when the government and private sector unite under a common vision.
“The Nigeria Way Project” is remarkable and has been a beacon of hope illuminating the path towards Youth Entrepreneurship and Women’s Empowerment which has witnessed the transformation of lives, establishment of sustainable businesses, and the Empowerment of women who are the backbone of the communities.” he added.
The minister added that the event symbolises the culmination of a cooperative effort that has demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving positive change.
“Let this be a testament to what we can achieve when we work together, each bringing our unique strength to the table,” he stated.
Ahmadu noted that working together to achieve success is in line with the Present Administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“I look forward to witnessing the continued impact of the collective efforts in shaping a brighter, more cooperative future for the community we serve to enhance the Nation” the Minister stressed.
Earlier, in her welcome address, the Country Project Manager of Mennonite Economic Development Association, MEDA, Grace Fosen, explained that over the past seven years, the Organization has embarked on remarkable journey of Empowerment, Resilience, and Positive Transformation.
She stated that the project has witnessed remarkable achievement as it recorded over one billion financial access that has helped in fostering the growth of women businesses.
Fosen added that various youths have also been supported in Mini-Agro equipment fabrication which has promoted local indigenous manufacturing of agro technologies, stating that, more than 9000 women and youths have acquired productive technologies for their business and over 15000 have received technical assistance to promote economic and climate resilience.
In her goodwill message, Counsellor and Head Cooperation, Canada, Djifa Ahado, pledged commitment in working with Nigeria to reduce extreme poverty and build a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society to ensure growth that works for everyone and align with the government of Nigeria’s priorities.
“Canada will continue to support projects to increase employment and business opportunities for vulnerable Nigerian youths, with a focus on women’s economic empowerment, mainly through support to rural agriculture, value chain development and promoting income generating opportunities,” she said.