Kefas pledges to remove barriers to women’s economic growth in Taraba

By Femi Bolaji

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting women’s rights and strengthening their socio-economic status, stressing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without grassroots inclusion.

Kefas spoke over the weekend in Jalingo during an orientation programme for Project Champions under the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up Project (NFWP-SU), which he described as a timely and critical intervention for the state.

Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mary Sinjen, the governor charged the newly appointed Project Champions to lead efforts toward advancing gender equality.

He acknowledged existing systemic barriers limiting women’s participation and pledged to expand access to economic opportunities across the state.

Kefas also assured stakeholders of his administration’s support through timely funding approvals and effective implementation strategies to ensure the project’s success.

The State Coordinator of NFWP-SU, Elder Isaac Finya Yarafa, highlighted the programme’s role in amplifying women’s voices, noting that removing barriers to participation is both a social obligation and an economic imperative.

Yarafa explained that the orientation was designed to give participants a clear understanding of the project’s framework, with emphasis on protection from violence and inclusion in leadership roles.

He outlined key responsibilities of the Project Champions, including leading awareness campaigns, promoting inclusive participation, and serving as agents of transformation.

He also commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development, alongside development partners, for their collaborative efforts toward the success of the initiative.