This initiative is part of the $540 million Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up Project (NFWP-SU), which is being implemented across 32 states. The program aims to directly impact five million women, indirectly benefit millions more, and facilitate the creation of approximately 4.5 million jobs.
Verghis highlighted that women are already significant contributors to the economy as farmers, traders, processors, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. The NFWP-SU is designed to help these women transition from economic survival to opportunity, and from individual efforts to collective strength.
Women participating in the program have collectively mobilized and saved over N20 billion, demonstrating discipline, trust, and economic agency. The Community Investment Fund, a component of the NFWP-SU, will provide additional resources to women's groups to enhance production, expand businesses, access new markets, and create jobs.
The Katsina State Government has committed to matching every dollar invested in the project with its own resources, a move that will expand the program's reach within the state. Verghis urged financial institutions and businesses to view women-owned enterprises as valuable partners rather than solely as beneficiaries of development aid, aiming for sustainable business growth.