By Uzair Adam Imam
Thirty women have graduated from an entrepreneurship programme in Jigawa State.
The programme, which was meant to foster economic empowerment and gender equality, was launched Wednesday in Jigawa State by Blue Sapphire Hub in collaboration with the US Embassy in Abuja, as part of its transformative Women on Wednesday (WOW).
The initiative had made significant strides in Kano and Sokoto states.
It aims at equipping women entrepreneurs with essential entrepreneurial and digital skills and to also alleviate poverty.
- Jigawa Assembly speaker survives impeachment plot
- Gov Namadi donates N2m to family of deceased soldier
The inaugural cohort in Jigawa State comprised 30 women-led small businesses with limited entrepreneurial and digital proficiency.
Through a series of workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities, participants were immersed in a supportive environment aimed at enhancing their business acumen and market reach.
Key institutions such as SMEDAN, CAC, FIRS, NAFDAC, and Jaiz Bank collaborated with Blue Sapphire Hub for the success of the program.
The graduation for the first cohort of WOW 2024 took place on January 25, 2024, with notable dignitaries in attendance, including the Honourable Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab, and the Principal Private Secretary to the Jigawa State Governor, Alh. Adamu Muhammad Garun Gabas.
A highlight of the ceremony was the generous pledge of N1.5 million made by Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab on behalf of her Ministry and the Jigawa State Government to support the businesses of the WOW participants.
The Jigawa State Government demonstrated unwavering support for the initiative, actively engaging in its implementation and expansion.
The WOW program is not merely a one-time initiative but rather a year-long commitment comprising four cohorts.