Ekiti State Launches Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up to Empower Grassroots Women Economically

The Ekiti State Government has officially launched the Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up (NFWP-SU)—a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at improving economic opportunities for women across local communities. The program begins with a first-phase rollout in Efon, Moba, and Ayekire (Gbonyin) LGAs, setting the foundation for broader impact across the state.

During the launch event, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, emphasized the state’s strong commitment to women’s empowerment:

“This initiative reflects Governor Abayomi Oyebanji’s vision of building an inclusive society where women thrive economically. It’s more than a program—it’s a pathway to sustainable livelihoods and economic independence for women at the grassroots level.”

Designed to promote teamwork, financial literacy, savings culture, and social cohesion, the NFWP-SU will help women organize into Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), empowering them to access finance, share knowledge, and uplift their communities.

The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, was also praised for her strong advocacy in championing the program’s expansion. Women were encouraged to actively participate and follow the program guidelines to maximize its benefits.

To ensure smooth execution, the State Project Coordinating Unit (SPCU), led by Mrs. Toyin Familoni, has begun extensive stakeholder engagement in Efon LGA. The team visited traditional rulers, local government officials, and community leaders to foster community ownership and collaboration.

“These courtesy visits and sensitization campaigns are key to creating an enabling environment for implementation,” Familoni said.
She also announced the start of the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) Exercise, which includes stakeholder mapping, awareness drives, and selection of ward facilitators—steps intended to align the intervention with real community needs.

The program’s goal is to build economic resilience and reduce gender inequality, using a structured group model to help women gain access to finance, enhance entrepreneurial skills, and improve their families’ quality of life.

According to Familoni, community leaders in Efon have responded positively, expressing confidence that the initiative will bring lasting benefits to women and their households. Rollout in Moba and Ayekire LGAs will follow shortly.

The Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up in Ekiti State is a collaborative effort between the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, and the World Bank, aimed at building a more equitable and prosperous future through women-focused economic development.