By Ahmed Ahmed
A women-focused development initiative in Bauchi State is promoting female leadership and challenging gender stereotypes through a programme designed to empower mothers to nurture leadership qualities in their daughters.
The initiative, being implemented by the Fahimta Women and Youth Development Initiative (FAWOYDI), is part of the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) Project funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by ActionAid Nigeria.
Speaking on the project, the Programme Officer, Madam P. Yanga, said the intervention recognises the vital role of mothers in shaping the future of girls and building a more inclusive society.
According to her, the project seeks to equip women with the knowledge and skills needed to identify, encourage and develop leadership potential in their daughters from an early age.
Yanga explained that the programme is founded on the belief that lasting social transformation begins within the family, where parents play a critical role in influencing the aspirations and opportunities available to children.
“For sustainable change, we must begin from the home. We want mothers to understand the impact of gender stereotypes on children and support the leadership ambitions of young girls rather than limiting them,” she said.
She added that the project would provide mentorship opportunities and capacity-building programmes for young women and emerging female leaders to enhance their confidence, participation in decision-making and engagement in public life.
Addressing concerns raised by some participants regarding cultural and religious sensitivities, Yanga assured stakeholders that all project activities would be implemented with due respect for local traditions and values.
She noted that community leaders, women’s groups, youth associations and security agencies had expressed support for the initiative, which is expected to run for four years in selected communities across Bauchi State.
