By Yemi Balogun
In a resounding display of royal unity and commitment to women’s empowerment, His Royal Majesty, Oba Moses Etombi Agbana, alongside his esteemed traditional leaders, have thrown full endorsement behind the Nigeria for Women Program Scale-Up Project(NFWP-SU ).The endorsement came during a high-profile visit by the project team to Yagba East LGA, where advocacy, sensitization, and the seeding of ward facilitators marked a milestone in community driven transformation.
Leading the royal assembly were HRM Oba Lamidi Ayeni, Elejuku of Ejuku Land, Oba Lamidi Ayeni, HRM Oba S.A. Mohammed, Olukotun of Ife-Olukotun; and HRH Oba Babatola, Oba Itakete.
Speaking from his throne in Isanlu, HRM Oba Moses Etombi Agbana hailed the initiative as a new development that will bring development for the women in Yagba East. He emphasized that to scale up women’s economic inclusion and leadership across Nigeria, there is need for targeted skills training, financial access, and community platforms, directly aligning with national goals for gender equity and sustainable development.
The project team, led by the State Project Cordinator, Dr. Esther Ameadaji, represented by the Head of Operations, Mr. Alabi Olabanji, engaged the traditional rulers and community stakeholders in dynamic sensitization sessions. He highlighted success stories of empowered women transforming households and villages, while advocating for the establishment of Women Affinity Groups (WAGs). He said the project will empower ward facilitators, those who will ensure local ownership, monitor implementation, and amplify women’s voices at the grassroots level.”
Earlier in her goodwill message, the Director Women of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development reiterated the ministry’s commitment in ensuring that no woman on Kogi will be left behind in terms of inclusivity and empowerment. She lauded the traditional rulers for their warm reception and endorsement of the NFWP-SU in Yagba East LGA.
key highlights were the presentation of project Souvenirs to the King, handing over of motorcycles to the Local Government Project Implementing Unit, which was received by the Director of Local Government, the seeding of ward facilitators and community champions sensitized on-site to drive program rollout. These facilitators will spearhead WAG formations, tailoring interventions to Yagba East’s unique needs.
The Agbana however reaffirmed his commitment to rigorous monitoring, directing all district heads to oversee activities and report directly to him.
“This is our collective duty,” the King declared. “We will watch this seed grow into a forest of prosperity.” He noted.
The endorsement underscores Yagba East’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s women’s empowerment agenda, promising ripple effects for economic resilience and social harmony.
