The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has taken a significant step toward strengthening women’s economic empowerment with the presentation of grinding machines to widows within the Ministry, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive welfare and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable groups.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at the Ministry’s premises in Abuja, the Honourable Minister, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, FSI, described the initiative as a foundational step toward broader empowerment programmes that will benefit both staff and vulnerable women across the country.
“This is just the beginning. Let us not ignore humble beginnings. This initiative, though small, will provide immediate support to families while we prepare for much bigger interventions,” the Minister stated.
She emphasized the importance of inclusive empowerment within the public service, noting that vulnerable individuals—including widows—exist even within government institutions.
“In everything we do, there must be a path for our staff. We have women within the Ministry and across the Federal Service who also need support,” she added.
The Minister commended the Department responsible for conceptualizing the initiative and acknowledged the contribution of partners, particularly World Bank
Anrin (Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria), whose resources supported the project.
“We appreciate this initiative—it was thoughtfully designed by the Department, and we thank our partners for their support. This is not government funding, and we are truly grateful,” she noted.
Highlighting the broader socio-economic context, the Minister linked the intervention to ongoing efforts to address food and nutritional challenges in the country.
“We have a nutritional crisis in the country. This support will help families generate additional income and improve their capacity to feed themselves,” she said.
She further called for unity among women across sectors and affiliations, urging collective action to drive national development.
“Women in Nigeria must think with one mind. Empowerment starts from within, and together we can build a stronger movement that benefits all,” she stressed.
The Honourable Minister also directed that additional items available in the Ministry’s store be identified and prepared for future distribution to deserving staff, while applauding the Deputy Director overseeing the Nutrition Services Department for ensuring a transparent and inclusive selection process.
“This effort is worthy of emulation. I encourage all Departments to adopt similar initiatives that support our staff and their families,” she said.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Asanye Nko Esuabana, described the initiative as a milestone in the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
“Today, we identify with our sisters who have lost their spouses. These grinding machines will help generate additional income for their families because where there is income, there is greater stability in meeting basic needs,” she said.
She reiterated the importance of collaboration and sustained planning in achieving impactful results.
“It requires collective effort—talking together and planning together—to achieve meaningful progress. You can count on my full support,” the Permanent Secretary assured.
Delivering the Vote of Thanks, Mr. John Duru, Deputy Director overseeing the Nutrition Services Department, expressed deep appreciation to the Honourable Minister, Permanent Secretary and all stakeholders for their support and presence.
“The joy and enthusiasm on the faces of the beneficiaries reflect the true purpose of this programme. Charity indeed begins at home, and this initiative will go a long way in creating multiple streams of income for these families,” he said.
“Your presence and commitment mean a lot to us, and we are confident that this initiative will yield lasting benefits,” he added.
The event drew Directors, staff of the Ministry, partners, and stakeholders from various sectors, marking yet another milestone in the Ministry’s drive to promote inclusive development, economic resilience, and social protection for women across Nigeria.
Ahmed Lawan Danbazau Mnipr
Head, Information, Press and Public Relations Dept.
