ASHENEWS reports that the Niger state government has sought collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to provide support to women-owned businesses in the state.
The Special Adviser to the Niger State Governor on Women and Affirmative Action, Mrs Mary Berje stated this when she paid a visit to the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii in Abuja.
Berje, in her remarks, said that the visit was to seek possible areas of collaboration to ensure Niger State women get access to SMEDAN facilities that would enhance their businesses.
“As the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women and Affirmative Action and the mouthpiece of women in Niger State, I have the sole responsibility of speaking for them and seeking areas of ease that will enhance the businesses of my women,” she said.
The Special Adviser noted that the present administration under Governor Mohammed Bago was focused on empowering women in the state.
She pledged the state government’s commitment to partnership with the agency, adding that the government was highly committed to advancing women’s rights and empowerment.
Responding, the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii advised the Niger state government to inaugurate a state council, to be headed by the Governor and other critical stakeholders in a bid to improve collaboration.
He listed key areas of partnership including a Product Enhancement Scheme, networking opportunities, access to finance as well as business development service.
He therefore promised to partner with the office of the Special Adviser on Women and Affirmative Action to enhance women’s development in the state.
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Thanks you Mrs Mary Noel Barje. You have done well for Women in Niger State. We are all proud of you.