The Federal Government has distributed grinding machines to widows working within the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in a move aimed at supporting vulnerable women and improving their economic stability.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the initiative marks the first phase of a broader empowerment programme being developed by the Ministry.
Speaking during the presentation in Abuja, the Minister described the intervention as modest but impactful, noting that it is designed to provide immediate income opportunities for beneficiaries while laying the foundation for expanded support schemes.
She emphasised the Ministry’s focus on inclusive welfare, pointing out that vulnerable groups, including widows, exist within public institutions and should be considered in social support interventions.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim also acknowledged the role of development partners in supporting the initiative, particularly the World Bank-assisted Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project, which funded the programme.
According to her, the intervention aligns with ongoing efforts to address household food and nutrition challenges, as beneficiaries are expected to use the equipment to generate additional income.
The Minister further called for stronger collaboration among women to enhance economic opportunities and social support systems, adding that plans are underway to expand the initiative to reach more beneficiaries in subsequent phases.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Asanye Nko Esuabana, said the programme would contribute to improving the economic conditions of widows by creating alternative sources of livelihood. She stressed the importance of coordination and long-term planning in sustaining such interventions.
Also speaking, the Deputy Director in charge of Nutrition Services, Mr. John Duru, said the initiative would have a positive impact on beneficiaries and commended the Ministry’s leadership and partners for their support.
The event was attended by directors, staff of the Ministry, and development partners.
