Kwara sets pace in gender inclusion with new economic empowerment policy

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin –

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Wednesday launched the domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, describing it as a bold step to expand opportunities for women across the state.

With the launch, Kwara becomes the first state in the North-Central region to domesticate the national policy, which seeks to remove systemic barriers women face in accessing public sector contracts and leadership positions.

The event was organised by the Office of the First Lady, Ambassador Olufolake AbdulRazaq, in partnership with the Ajike People’s Support Centre and Eden Venture Group.

Top dignitaries in attendance included the First Lady; the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by Dr. Jummai Idonije; and the wife of the Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly, Hajia Sa’adat Yakubu Danladi.

Others were the Deputy Chief Whip of the State Assembly, Hon. Mariam Yusuf Aladi; wife of the Kwara State Chief Judge, Mrs. Janet Olufunke Adebara; Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahaya; and wives of local government chairmen, among others.

Governor AbdulRazaq urged stakeholders to invest in women’s education, skills, and businesses to build a state where no woman is left behind. He said empowering women entrepreneurs will help bridge the gender earnings gap and drive inclusive growth in Kwara.

“We aim to support women through training and improved access to finance, unlocking the potential of half of our population,” he said.

Mrs. AbdulRazaq emphasized that Nigerian women continue to face barriers to economic participation, such as limited access to education, financial resources, and market opportunities, and called for continued efforts to close these gaps.