Global Affairs Canada, through ActionAid Nigeria, has made a significant investment of N357,633,398.44 to touch the lives of over 1.5 million individuals in Bauchi State, including women, girls, men, boys, and persons with disabilities, through the Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (WVL-N) project.
The disclosure was made in an opening remarks by Andrew Mamedu, Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), at the WVL-Nigeria project closure and dissemination ceremony in Bauchi State held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
Represented by the Deputy Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, Hajiya Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo, he stated that the Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (WVL-N) project was a transformative initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada.
According to him, “This event not only signifies the culmination of years of dedicated effort but also celebrates the remarkable strides we have made together in advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls across this region.”
The Country Director added that “Since its inception in 2019, the WVL-N project has been driven by an unwavering commitment to empower women, challenge entrenched cultural practices, and promote gender equality.”
He added that, “Through the invaluable support of Global Affairs Canada and the collaborative efforts of over 100 women’s rights organisations, inclusive of 1 network organisation, 3 local women’s rights organisations, and 12 community-based organisations here in Bauchi State, we have provided direct support to 517,365 women and girls across communities in 18 LGAs.”
He added, We use this opportunity to commend the Governor of Bauchi State, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and other ministries in particular, for providing the opportunity to work in the state.”
Andrew Mamedu added that “these interventions have touched the lives of countless women, girls, persons with disabilities, and their families. From providing safe spaces and legal support for survivors of gender-based violence to promoting women’s economic empowerment and justice as well as enhancing their participation in leadership roles, the impact of our work is evident in the transformed lives and strengthened communities we see today.”
“Through economic programmes like the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), 365 groups have been formed, and over 297,408,254.00 Naira has been saved by these women in Bauchi State,” he added.
The achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication of all our partners, stakeholders, and community members within a conducive working environment provided by the state government and stakeholders.
He stressed that “together, we have made significant strides towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, and today, we celebrate the positive change that has been achieved through our collective efforts.”
According to him, “As we reflect on our journey, it is essential to recognise the invaluable contributions of every individual and organisation, especially the partners involved in the implementation of the project.”
He added that “your commitment, resilience, and passion have been the driving force behind our success. We also extend our deepest gratitude to Global Affairs Canada for their steadfast support and belief in our mission.”
Andrew Mamedu stressed that “the end of this phase is not the end of our efforts; it is a new beginning. So, as we celebrate our collective achievements, let us look forward to the future with reinforced hope and determination. Let us continue to build on the foundation we have laid, to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and to work towards a more just and equitable society.”
While giving an overview of the project, which lasted 5 years from 2019 to 2024, WVL-N Project Manager Niri Goyit said that a total of 413,008 cases of gender-based violence against women and girls were addressed, 393,973 women’s economic empowerment and justice programmes were implemented, and 194,344 women’s political participation and leadership were attained.
Niri Goyit added that 365 groups were established: 3 women leadership forums, 5 women peer education groups, 5 SGBV case management committees, 4 community paralegals, 1 state coordination body, 10 women peer groups, 10 male advocacy committees, 5 community case monitors, and 2 SGBV clubs.
Some of the beneficiaries of the project shared their impactful success stories, commending the implementation of the project in the state and urging the government to continue from where the GAC and ActionAid Nigeria are stopping.
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