By Oboh Linus, Lafia
The Women’s Environmental Programme (WEP), an NGO, has inaugurated the Transforming Her Resilience, Inclusion and Value in Economies (THRIVE) project to boost the economic inclusion of women and women with disabilities in Nasarawa State.
Dr Priscilla Achakpa, Founder and Global Lead of WEP, speaking at the inception workshop for the THRIVE project on Friday in Lafia, stated that the project targets approximately 300 beneficiaries across the state.
Achakpa, however, said the THRIVE project, with support from Christian Aid, has begun with 100 beneficiaries drawn from Agunji and Kagbu communities in Nasarawa Eggon LGA, while the remaining 200 will be selected statewide.
She explained that the project specifically prioritises women and women with disabilities who are often excluded from financial and digital opportunities.
She said that the project aimed to build women’s economic and financial capabilities by facilitating loans for them and building their capacities in ICT so they could become self-reliant and contribute to their communities.
“In terms of financial inclusion, persons with disabilities, especially women, are frequently neglected. We are actively targeting them.
“We live in a globalised world, and addressing the digital skills gap is crucial. Living with a disability does not mean a person lacks capacity,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr Emmanuel Yaro, Executive Council Secretary of Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, described the project as “a workshop with a difference” because of its focus on rural and economically disadvantaged women.
He said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and commended organisers for seeking collaboration, partnership and ownership from the beneficiaries.
Mr Salle Barde-Keana, Executive Chairman, Nasarawa State Disability Rights Commission, applauded WEP for having passion for both women and persons with disabilities.
He assured the Commission’s support and called for more inclusion of persons with disabilities in the project.
“This project aligns perfectly with our mandate. We will take ownership and work closely with you to enhance the lives of not just women, but also persons with disabilities,” he said.
Representatives of the Ministries of Science and Technology, Environment, Agriculture, and Finance also pledged government support.
They said the THRIVE project aligns with Nasarawa State’s priorities on inclusive growth and human capital development.
“We see this program not merely as a project, but as a partnership. The Nasarawa State Government, through relevant MDAs, will provide the necessary policy support and collaboration to ensure the objectives are fully realised,” they stated.
The THRIVE project, with support from Christian Aid, is designed to promote gender-just economic systems where women, especially the poorest and marginalised, have access to safe work, financial rights, and stronger influence over economic decisions and policies.
