The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has commended the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Ibrahim, for putting smiles on the faces of women and vulnerable families in Benue State.

This is contained in a statement issued by Chizoba Ogbeche, NAWOJ Vice President for Zone D, and signed by Juliana Ofoku, Zonal Secretary, on Tuesday in Abuja.

NAWOJ Zone D comprises Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Ms Ogbeche expressed concern over the recurring violence and displacement affecting several communities in Benue, particularly impacting women and children.

NAWOJ Zone D hailed the minister for her timely intervention in the state, noting that it aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to provide direct support to women as part of broader national development efforts.

According to the statement, the minister delivered empowerment packages, including cash grants, 400 bags of rice, 20 bales of Ankara fabrics, fairly used clothing, grinding machines, and sewing machines.

The statement added, “The message is accompanied with compassion from the president and the first lady, Senator  Oluremi Tinubu. Twenty women farmers were each awarded ₦1 million, with an initial ₦500,000 already disbursed. The remaining balance is scheduled to be paid later in the year.’’

Ms Ogbeche noted that the intervention was part of broader efforts to cushion the effects of insecurity and economic hardship in the region.

She called on security agencies and all levels of government to be more proactive in preventing attacks across the North Central region and beyond.

Ms Ogbeche also urged the State Security Service to ensure that suspects arrested in connection with the Benue killings were prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.

The association also congratulated the minister on her conferment with the prestigious traditional title of Dooshima of Benue, which means “Love of the Benue People.”

Ms Ogbeche described the title as well-deserved recognition of the ministry’s impactful programmes across the country. 

(NAN)