Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, has addressed recent concerns regarding the $500 million World Bank loan intended to improve the well-being of Nigerian women and children.
In response to media reports alleging that she was being targeted by government factions for not signing the loan request, Kennedy-Ohanenye refuted claims of victimization. She asserted that these reports are unfounded.
According to a statement from her Media Aide, Musa Abdulrahaman, the Minister clarified her stance during a recent media engagement.
She outlined her vision for the welfare of women and children, acknowledging the challenges faced by the Ministry.
“There is renewed optimism for Nigerian women and children, bolstered by the steadfast support of our President,” said Kennedy-Ohanenye.
She highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to restructuring the World Bank loan, which aims to significantly enhance the empowerment of Nigerian women.
The statement elaborated on the loan’s restructuring, with Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasizing that unnecessary expenses such as consultancy fees and advocacy costs are being removed.
This restructuring will ensure that funds are directly allocated to socio-economic empowerment programs for beneficiaries.
The Minister noted that over $100 million had previously been allocated to support women’s economic productivity before her tenure.
Following her appointment, the World Bank extended a new loan of $500 million for the Nigeria For Women Project, designed to benefit a broader spectrum of women nationwide.
Kennedy-Ohanenye dismissed claims of being victimized, stating that such reports are “absolutely false.”
She praised the cooperative efforts from all parties involved and encouraged women’s affinity groups and cooperatives to register on the Nigerian Women E-market portal to access the funds and expand their socio-economic opportunities.
With strong backing from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister expressed confidence that the restructured loan will effectively empower Nigerian women and enhance their socio-economic prospects.
