FG Asked to Foster Inclusive Growth for Marginalised Groups

The federal government has been asked to evolved actionable strategies to address the issues of economic exclusion and foster inclusive growth for marginalised groups in Nigeria.

The appeal was made in Abuja at the International Women’s Month Economic Empowerment Summit for ASHWAN and Other Marginalised Groups in Nigeria, with the theme: “Inclusive Economic Growth and Development; A Catalyst for Reducing Vulnerability and Poverty Among Marginalized Groups”.

The Summit was organised by the UN Women, in collaboration with UNAIDS, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Association of Women Living with HIV (ASWHAN), and other partners.

The spotlight of the event was placed on the often-overlooked issue of exclusion faced by women living with HIV, disabilities, older women, and segments of impoverished youth, and actionable strategies to address the issues of economic exclusion and foster inclusive growth for marginalised groups in Nigeria.

Speaking at the summit, the UN Women Nigeria Country Representative, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving gender equality and empowering marginalised communities.

She noted: “Inclusion is not just an act of policymaking but rather essential for the survival of the human race. We are working hard to make ‘Leaving No One Behind’ practical."

Representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) echoed similar sentiments. Mrs. Esther Hindi, the National Coordinator of ASWHAN, encouraged the need for tailored policies and programmes to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women living with HIV, women with disabilities, and elderly women.

Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, in his keynote address, delivered an insightful exposition on the root causes of exclusion, particularly focusing on resource-poor and vulnerable groups.

Igbuzor highlighted the gaps in government policies, including social investment and welfare programmes, and concluded by offering practical strategies and solutions to address these disparities.

The President of the Abuja Chambers of Commerce, in a gesture of solidarity, provided guidance on business and funding opportunities available to the marginalised groups, signalling a commitment to support their empowerment.