By Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi.
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in partnership with ActionAid and Global Affairs Canada (GAC), has launched the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (RWVL) project with a grant of $15 million Canadian dollars
The five-year initiative, themed Consolidating Gains and Strategic Partnerships for Sustained Impact,” is designed to strengthen women’s rights organizations, promote inclusivity, and advance the rights and safety of women and girls across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Hajiya Suwaiba Dankabo, said the project would address the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.
She stressed the importance of prioritising marginalized groups such as women with disabilities, sex workers, and vulnerable children in the distribution of resources.
Also, the Project Manager of Women’s Voices and Leadership, Niri Goyit, commended the Federal and State Governments for paying greater attention to women’s issues, noting that sustainable gender equality must begin at the community level.
NAWOJ National Chairperson, Aisha Ibrahim, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices and ensuring accountability in the implementation of the project.
A statement by the Vice Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Bolanle Okpevo, confirmed the inauguration of an Agile Project Team to drive the initiative over the next five years.
The representative of the Canadian High Commissioner reiterated Canada’s commitment to promoting women’s rights, peace, security, and human rights across Africa.
He commended the Nigerian media for its role in drawing attention to critical issues affecting women and girls, stressing the need for equal access to education, healthcare, justice, and opportunities.
“When women lead, Nigeria thrives. When Nigeria thrives, we all rise,” he stated.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the FCT NAWOJ Chairperson, Bassey Ita Ikpang, representatives of ECOWAS, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, UN Women Nigeria, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations.
