By Hillary Asemota
The National Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria (NCTRN) has expressed its willingness to partner with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to ensure the realization of the goals of the Nigeria For Women Programme at the grassroots levels in the country.
The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman, National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Muhammed Abubakar, made the statement during the official unveiling of the Nigeria For Women Programme at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa Abuja, recently.
He stated that the Ministry’s efforts at repositioning Nigerian women through sustainable empowerment is a laudable initiative but needs the active participation of the rural dwellers to ensure the realization of the objective
According to him, “having recognised the importance of the Programme as a catalyst for the socio-economic development of Nigerian women, we showed up personally, not only to give our support but to advocate that modalities be put in place towards ensuring that women at the grassroots become active participants and beneficiaries of the Scheme.”
The Sultan informed that through collaboration with the traditional institutions which are closest to the rural dwellers, a lot of programmes put in place for the people can be achieved, adding: “If anyone has any doubt about the roles traditional rulers could play in the development of our country as well as the patriotism of our traditional leaders as regards the development of our country, coming here will clear that doubt.”
He commended the Honourable Minister, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, Management and Staff of the Ministry for their dogged commitment to the well-being of the women, children and the vulnerable in society
On his part, the Ooni of Ife and Co-Chair, National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi called on the Ministry to use its various networks and stakeholders to ensure that its sustainable empowerment products reach the less privileged women and vulnerable in the rural areas
He further assured that traditional rulers in the country, as the closest authority to the ruralites will continue to support all the laudable policies and objectives of government tailored towards poverty reduction, social inclusion and wealth creation, which will impact positively on the lives of the people.
The Nigeria For Women Programme launched by President Bola Ahmed encompasses the National Women e-Market Portal, National Helpline, Naija Save Nigeria and Nigeria Integrity Brigade Project