Kaduna govt invests N5bn in women’s empowerment, enrolls 10,000 almajirai in Schools

The Kaduna State Government has rolled out major social development interventions, investing N5 billion in women’s economic empowerment and enrolling 10,000 Almajiri children into formal schools as part of efforts to boost inclusion and protect vulnerable groups.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Rabi Salisu, disclosed the achievements during a press conference on Saturday in Kaduna, outlining the state’s reforms and strategic investments over recent years.

According to her, the N5 billion empowerment fund specifically targeted women-led businesses through grants, skills acquisition programmes, and free agricultural inputs for women smallholder farmers—initiatives aimed at expanding economic opportunities and strengthening livelihoods.

In the education sector, the state achieved a milestone by integrating 10,000 Almajiri children into the school system.

Adolescent girls were also enrolled into formal education and provided with start-up kits and protection services to reduce vulnerabilities.

To combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Salisu said Kaduna has enhanced its response system with four functional Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), toll-free helplines, and a coordinated technical working group supporting survivors.

The state has further strengthened legal protections by domesticating and implementing the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, the Child Welfare and Protection Law, and the Disability Law.

Four dedicated family courts are now operational to fast-track cases involving women and children.

In juvenile justice reform, 85 children have so far benefited from the Children’s Diversion Programme, receiving support in school enrollment, literacy, numeracy, vocational skills, and mental health services—offering a rehabilitative alternative to detention.

On social inclusion, the Disability Affairs Board is now fully active, improving access to essential services for Persons with Disabilities.

Broader safety-net initiatives, including cash transfers and youth development programmes, have also reached thousands of vulnerable households.

Salisu noted that gender and inclusion principles have been mainstreamed across all ministries and agencies.

Through the Open Government Partnership (OGP), Kaduna has strengthened citizen participation in planning, budgeting, and governance.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with development partners and civil society, with the goal of advancing gender equality, child protection, and inclusive growth.

According to the Commissioner, these ongoing reforms position Kaduna as a model for social development and inclusive governance in Nigeria.