AfriPulse
Benue State Government has approved the release of ₦450 million as counterpart funding for the Nigeria for Women Project, a programme supported by the World Bank aimed at boosting women’s economic empowerment.
The initiative is designed to support women across the state through small and medium-scale enterprises, while also helping to reduce poverty and stimulate economic development.
The approval was disclosed in a statement issued by the Technical Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev.
According to the statement, the ₦450 million represents the state government’s contribution to the programme and will unlock additional funding from the World Bank to enable full implementation of the project in Benue.
Iorpev explained that the intervention is expected to expand opportunities for women entrepreneurs and strengthen their participation in the state’s economy.
The governor’s aide also revealed that the State Executive Council approved the sponsorship of 81 Muslim pilgrims for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, adding that similar support would be extended to Christian pilgrims when it is time for the pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
According to him, “this initiative marks a new era of pilgrimage sponsorship in Benue State, a practice previously neglected by past administrations, re-initiated by the Alia-led government.”
In another decision, the council approved an executive order by the governor to rename the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation as the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation, in honour of veteran journalist Dan Agbese.
Iorpev noted that the move recognises Agbese’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s media industry.
Chief Solomon also commended the late media icon for his legacy of professionalism and dedication, urging young Nigerians to emulate his example.
He emphasised that hard work, discipline, and commitment remain key ingredients for success, adding that Agbese’s life and career demonstrate the rewards of perseverance.
Source: NationalAccordNewspaper | Read the Full Story…
