World Bank-Supported Women Empowerment Project Flags Off in Okpokwu, Screening for Local Staff Underway
Okpoga, Benue State January 19, 2026
The Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up Project (NFWP-SU), a World Bank-supported initiative, officially commenced its operations in Okpokwu Local Government Area with a significant staff screening and mobilization event held today 19th January 2026 at the Okpoga Council Secretariat, Okpokwu Benue State
The program, implemented by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, aims at economically empowering women across Nigeria
The flag-off ceremony marked the start for community engagement and the interview process for local government staff who will drive the project’s implementation at the grassroots level.
In her keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Odachi Ikwue, expressed profound satisfaction with the large turnout of participants.
She extended gratitude to the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for prioritizing Okpokwu as a beneficiary local government area.
“The selection of Okpokwu is a testament to his administration’s commitment to inclusive development,” Hon. Mrs. Ikwue stated.
She lauded the local government leadership for effective mobilization and issued a strong caution to citizens. “This program is entirely transparent, free of charge, and has no political affiliation. “I urge all participants to be vigilant against anyone, claiming they can facilitate selection for a fee. Selection is based purely on qualification, good character, and commitment. Possession of a National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory for all potential beneficiaries.” She said.
Providing further details on the project’s scope, the Secretary of the NFWP-SU, Mr. Afolabi, announced that the initiative is now active in 32 states across Nigeria. “The core objective is to lift women out of poverty by building their economic independence through skills, resources, and social capital. We assure the people of Okpokwu that all twelve council wards in this local government will feel the impact of this program,” he affirmed.
The Director of General Services and Administration for Okpokwu LGA, Hon. Stephen T. Aneji, welcomed the initiative, thanking the State Government and the Ministry for extending the project to the area. He pledged the local government’s full cooperation and support to ensure the program’s success.
Participants from various wards shared their optimism. Mrs. Ochayi Rose (Okpoga-South), Mrs. Agaba Veronica Ogoo (Okpoga Central), and Mr. Onoja Simon Obeya (Okpoga West) all expressed their enthusiasm for the project. They promised to contribute diligently and deploy their expertise if selected to work as community facilitators.
The event culminated in the screening of over 18 prospective programs’ Local Government staff, who will form the local implementation structure.
The successful launch in Okpokwu signals a critical step in scaling up efforts to empower Nigerian women, foster economic resilience, and reduce poverty at the household level.
About the Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up (NFWP-SU):
The NFWP-SU is a strategic expansion of the Nigeria for Women Program,supported by the World Bank. It is designed to reach more women across Nigeria with interventions that enhance their livelihoods, improve access to finance and markets, and strengthen their voice and agency within their households and communities.
Ochanya Grace Okoh
Assistant Information Officer
Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Benue State.
