To promote economic empowerment among women, the Yobe State government has provided financial support to 356 women across the 178 wards of the state for goat farming.
A statement issued by the information officer, Ministry of Women Affairs, Maryam Makama said the initiative, which took place at the premises of the Ministry of Women Affairs, is designed to enhance the livelihoods of women by equipping them with a sustainable source of income.
Speaking at the event, the commissioner for women affairs, Hajiya Yajalo Badama, described the programme as part of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s commitment to improving the living standards of women, particularly in rural areas.
“The goat farming scheme is a crucial step in ensuring that women actively participate in agriculture and economic growth.
“It offers convenience, sustainability, and is gender-friendly. Women must embrace this opportunity to become key contributors to the state’s agricultural development,” she said.
She noted that Yobe is blessed with vast arable land and a favourable climate for goat rearing, stressing the need for women to take full advantage of the environment.
“Under the scheme, each beneficiary received cash support to purchase male and female goats for rearing, which could be used for generating income or producing milk for domestic consumption.”
The commissioner used the forum and called on women to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to enable them to exercise their civic rights during elections.
“We must ensure that we obtain our PVCs, especially those who are turning 18 years and above, as well as those who have lost or damaged theirs.
The PVC is the only means by which one can exercise his or her franchise during elections,” Badama said.
Earlier, the APC Women Leader in Yobe State, Hajiya Ladi Jibrin, commended the commissioner’s initiative and praised Governor Buni’s sustained commitment to women’s empowerment in the state.
“We sincerely commend the commissioner for this laudable initiative, which is touching the lives of women at the grassroots,” said the APC Women.
“Governor Mai Mala Buni has consistently demonstrated strong commitment to women’s empowerment, and we are grateful for his sustained support.”