The United States of America has revealed that it gave $1.02 million to civil society organisations to implement projects across the 17 states in southern Nigeria in 2021.

In a statement on Thursday, U.S. Consulate said it doled out the $1.02m to civil organisations for the execution of several projects that promote human rights, transparency in government, media rights amongst others.

“The funded projects addressed the themes of bolstering outreach to underserved communities, promoting respect for human rights and transparency in government, empowerment of women and youth, and teacher training and STEM education. Other themes included entrepreneurship, media literacy, combating misinformation,” the statement by U.S. consulate read.

The Consulate disclosed that it trained 250 women through the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) providing them with skills to grow their businesses and contribute to the growth of small and medium enterprises in Nigeria.

To boost milk production in the country, the Consulate supported the shipment of 250 dairy cows to Ekiti State, introducing biotech cowpea to increase farmers’ yields and improve food security in Nigeria.

It also supported United States exchange alumni to utilize the skills, knowledge, and networks gained through their exchange program in addressing challenges faced by communities across southern Nigeria.

U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer Stephen Ibelli said the alumni focused grant projects is part of the U.S. government’s efforts to support Nigeria’s economic development, improve livelihoods, and strengthen communities.

“We are proud to work with such an immensely energetic and creative community of alumni-led organizations and individuals committed to strengthening communities and empowering fellow Nigerians,” Mr Ibelli said.